Demand for 50 Percent Concession in Rail Fare for Journalists and Free Movement at Toll Plazas
Amritsar (K. L. Jit Walia):Office-bearers and members of Press Club Amritsar, led by Club President Rajesh Gill, today met Union Minister of State for Railways Mr. Ravneet Singh Bittu and submitted a memorandum highlighting key demands related to the rights and facilities of journalists.
The memorandum specifically demanded the restoration of the 50 percent concession in railway fares for accredited journalists in Punjab, a benefit that was earlier available to them. In addition, the delegation demanded that yellow card holder journalists should also be extended the same facility, enabling them to travel for professional assignments without financial burden.
Press Club Amritsar President Rajesh Gill said that journalists are the voice of society and are required to travel frequently to discharge their professional duties. In such circumstances, concessions in rail fares and ease of travel become extremely important. He further demanded that journalists should be provided permanent free passage at toll plazas, so that they do not face any hurdles during field reporting.
Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu listened carefully to the delegation and assured them that the demands of journalists would be considered seriously. He said that discussions would be held with the concerned departments and appropriate steps would be taken.
The office-bearers of Press Club Amritsar expressed hope that the Central Government would soon address the long-pending demands of journalists, enabling them to perform their professional duties fearlessly and impartially.
On this occasion, Senior Vice President Jaswant Singh Jas, Vice President Vipin Rana, General Secretary Maninder Singh Monga, Cashier Kamal Kishore Pehalwan, Secretary Rajeev Sharma, Secretary Satish Sharma, Press Club Spokesperson Parmbir Singh Aulakh, Cheharta Press Club President Sarwan Singh, along with several other members, were present.
KL JIT WALIA
