Guwahati-based journalist fraternity on January 9 appealed to the Assam government to start a scheme to support the bereaved families of working journalists of the state who died on duty.
Appreciating the government for initiating the pension scheme for journalists, the fraternity also urged to consider extending such benefits to the spouse of journalists who dies before attaining the age of 60.
Attending a memorial meeting of journalist Naresh Mitra at Guwahati Press Club, various speakers deliberated on the need for immediate financial support to his family. The media fraternity has also appealed to all for individual contribution for the benefit of the deceased journalist’s family.
State Information Commissioner of Manipur Information Commission, Oinam Sunil (a former colleague of Naresh Mitra at The Times of India) has already donated Rs 2.5 lakh to the family of Mitra. The amount, in the form of a bank fixed deposit, was officially handed over to Mitra’s wife Biva Sarkar (Mitra) in the meeting.
Amit Kumar Jain, a renowned industrialist also donated an amount of Rs 50,000 to the family of the bereaved journalists.
Advocate Arshad Choudhury, an advocate of the Gauhati High Court, also donated Rs 10,000 to the family of the deceased.
Meanwhile, individuals and organizations who are interested in donating any amount to the family of Mitra can donate through Account Holder Name: Biva Sarkar, A/C No 3194937302, IFSC Code: CBIN0283229, Central Bank of India, Bhangagarh Branch, Guwahati or through the Guwahati Press Club within next seven days.
