Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, delivered a powerful metaphor for journalism while inaugurating a long-standing sports event in Bhopal. On Sunday, he compared journalists to cricket's most crucial players, stating that their work is essential for a vigilant democracy.
Journalism as a Sporting Defence for Democracy
Addressing the gathering at the Old Campion Ground, CM Yadav described journalists as the "frontline bowlers" of the nation's democratic pitch. He elaborated that the "bouncers of the pen" and the "googlies of words" crafted by the media fraternity keep the spirit of democracy alert and ensure it progresses at a steady pace. He emphasized that the state has always been a land known for producing strong sportspersons and equally robust journalists.
A Legacy Event and a Chief Minister's Hat-Trick
The event in question was the 31st IES–Digiana Inter Press Cricket Tournament, organized by the Bhopal Sports Journalists Association. The CM noted that the association has been conducting this tournament continuously for three decades, a significant achievement in itself. He highlighted that the event fosters not just competitive cricket but also showers participants with warmth and camaraderie.
Mohan Yadav marked a personal milestone at the event, achieving a 'hat-trick' by attending the tournament once again. He lauded the institution's relentless efforts in maintaining the event's continuity over such a long period and extended his best wishes for its successful conduct.
Honouring a Rich Journalistic Heritage
In his speech, the Chief Minister paid homage to the illustrious legacy of journalism from Madhya Pradesh. He cited the contributions of eminent figures like Makhanlal Chaturvedi and Atal Bihari Vajpayee in the fields of literature and journalism, describing them as exemplary and worthy of deep reverence. He asserted that the state's journalists, who have consistently guided their profession in the national interest, have earned distinction even at the national level.
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Vishvas Sarang, former MLA Dhruv Narayan Singh, and senior journalists Mrigendra Singh, Vijay Das, and Tejendra Singh. BJP district president Ravindra Yati, social worker Rahul Kothari, and a large gathering of participants, officials, journalists, and sports enthusiasts were also present at the Old Campion Ground to celebrate the union of sports and media.
