The Haryana Patrakar Sangh (HPS), Jind District Unit, organised a condolence meeting and financial assistance programme at Safidon on Tuesday, where a cheque of ₹15 lakh was handed over to the bereaved family of late journalist Vikram. The event brought together journalists, public representatives and citizens, who paid heartfelt tributes to the departed media professional and expressed solidarity with his family during their time of grief.

Safidon BJP MLA Ramkumar Gautam attended the programme as the Chief Guest, while Ashok Chhabra, Media Coordinator to the Chief Minister of Haryana, HPS State President K.B. Pandit, former MLA Kaliram Patwari, senior journalists and several dignitaries were also present.

Addressing the gathering, Ramkumar Gautam described journalists as the “mirror of society”, stating that they play an indispensable role in strengthening democracy by highlighting public issues and ensuring accountability. He assured that the Haryana Government remains committed to supporting journalists and their families during times of hardship and would continue to stand with the media fraternity.

Speaking on the occasion, HPS State President K.B. Pandit said the organisation has consistently worked for the welfare of journalists across the state. He revealed that the Haryana Patrakar Sangh has so far provided more than ₹2.60 crore in financial assistance to journalists and their families, reflecting its unwavering commitment to supporting members of the profession during crises.

Pandit also urged the Haryana Government to introduce a cashless health insurance scheme of up to ₹5 lakh for journalists, enhance the monthly journalist pension from ₹15,000 to ₹20,000, extend accreditation benefits to digital journalists, and abolish the mandatory five-year accreditation requirement for pension eligibility. He said these reforms would strengthen the social security framework for media professionals and acknowledge the changing landscape of journalism.

Jind District President Vijender Dharmvir Rajthal appreciated the efforts of Vikas Rohilla, President of the Safidon Unit, and his team for successfully organising the programme. He reaffirmed that the Haryana Patrakar Sangh would continue working for the welfare, dignity and protection of journalists across the state while standing firmly with media professionals and their families whenever needed.

POD/DESK