Srinagar, Aug 19 (KNO): Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPIM) leader and former legislator MY Tarigami has written to the Election Commission of India (ECI), seeking an exemption from the suspension of government advertisements to newspapers in Jammu and Kashmir due to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC).
"With the MCC in place for the upcoming polls, the suspension of government ads has dealt a severe blow to the already struggling print media industry in the region," he said in a letter to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar.
Tarigami highlighted that the print media fraternity had endured significant financial losses during the recent Parliamentary elections, when the ads were stopped during the MCC imposition.
He emphasized the critical role of a vibrant and functional media in a democracy, particularly during the electioneering process.
Tarigami stressed that releasing government advertisements would not only provide much-needed relief to the print media but also ensure their sustainability.
The CPI(M) leader urged the ECI to consider the severe impact of the MCC on the print media industry and requested an exception to permit advertisements distribution at the earliest. He expressed hope that the ECI would generously consider and approve his request, enabling the print media to continue playing its vital role in society.
Tarigami's appeal comes at a crucial time when the print media industry in Jammu & Kashmir is reportedly facing unprecedented "financial challenges."
The exemption sought by the CPI(M) leader is seen as a lifeline for the struggling print media outlets in the region—(KNO)