BWJA Executive Body Meeting Resolves to Uphold Journalistic Integrity and Curb Unprofessional Practices

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Press Note

Baramulla, July 3:
The Executive Body of the Baramulla Working Journalists Association (BWJA) convened a pivotal meeting today at Khawaja Bagh, Baramulla. The session was chaired by Haji Karamat Qayoom and attended by President Gulzar Ahmad Zargar, General Secretary Umar Rashid, Vice President Nisar Yatoo, along with several key executive members.

The meeting focused on critical issues affecting journalism, with particular concern raised over the growing trend of unqualified and self-proclaimed individuals misusing the identity of journalists. Chairman Haji Karamat Qayoom underscored the importance of upholding the sanctity of the profession and announced that the BWJA will take stringent action against those lacking proper qualifications, ethical grounding, and professional experience.

He also urged members to foster mutual respect and cooperation to ensure the collective growth of the association. Among the key priorities discussed were operationalizing the BWJA office, organizing a seminar focused on media ethics and professionalism, and maintaining transparent financial records. The Chairman further announced that official BWJA identity cards will soon be issued to all verified members to distinguish legitimate journalists from imposters.

Importantly, he appealed to media houses in Srinagar to hire only qualified and trained journalists, adding that those who ignore this responsibility lose the moral right to complain about the rise in unprofessionalism within the media industry.

President Gulzar Ahmad Zargar, in his remarks, assured members that both the BWJA office and the official bank account will be functional soon. He emphasized the need for unity, accountability, and professionalism within the fraternity, noting, “There is no space for individuals whose actions damage the credibility of journalism.”

General Secretary Umar Rashid echoed these concerns and called on the Information Department to be held accountable for encouraging unqualified individuals.

Executive member Arshid Farooq highlighted the urgent need to safeguard journalism from those who misuse mics, logos, and press badges to gain undue advantages, thereby damaging the reputation of sincere media professionals.

The meeting witnessed active participation from several other executive members, including Altaf Baba, Aabid Nabi, Anzer Mohju, Sheikh Dawood, Irshad Bhat, Mudasir Malla, Sajad Peer, Fayaz Bhukari, Manzoor Sheeri, Majeed Sheeri, and Yaqoob Lala. All attendees pledged their full support toward protecting the dignity and integrity of journalism in Baramulla and beyond.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous resolution to uphold ethical journalism and take decisive steps to curb unprofessional practices that threaten the credibility of the profession.

Issued by:
Baramulla Working Journalists Association (BWJA)
Date: July 3, 2025
Location: Baramulla

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