Jony Pasha Shaik I Khammam:

In a powerful display of solidarity, the Telangana Working Journalists Federation (TWJF) Khammam District Committee organized a grand membership registration meeting on Monday, drawing an enthusiastic response from journalists across the district. The event saw the participation of over 300 journalists, with 196 new memberships recorded on the first day alone, marking a significant boost to the federation’s strength.

Massive Motorcycle Rally Marks the Event

The day commenced with a large-scale motorcycle rally from Kalvoddu Jubilee Club in Khammam to the City Central Function Hall in Rotary Nagar. TWJF State General Secretary Basava Punnaiah flagged off the rally, which passed through key city locations, including ZP Center and the old bus stand center. Journalists stopped at the ZP Center to pay tribute to the statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar before proceeding to the meeting venue via Illandu Cross Road.

Meeting Begins with Condolences and Leadership Addresses

Before the meeting officially commenced, a condolence resolution was proposed by Union District Assistant Secretary Jakkampudi Krishna, honoring journalists who had recently passed away. A two-minute silence was observed in their memory.

The gathering, presided over by TWJF District President Palla Kondala Rao, featured key speeches by TWJF State President Mangodi Somaiya, General Secretaries Basava Punnaiah, Vice Presidents Rajasekhar, and national leaders Anandha. District Secretary Kothapalli Srinivas Reddy, along with several prominent journalists and leaders, addressed the attendees, emphasizing the federation's commitment to journalists' welfare.

TWJF’s Fight Against Dictatorship and Journalist Welfare

Addressing the gathering, TWJF State General Secretary Basava Punnaiah strongly criticized certain journalist unions, accusing them of aligning with ruling governments rather than addressing the pressing concerns of media professionals. He alleged that these unions have adopted a dictatorial approach, sidelining journalists' interests while serving political agendas.

He emphasized that TWJF stands as a true voice for journalists, actively opposing authoritarian policies and ensuring that their issues are not ignored. He brought attention to the pressing need for journalists' welfare, particularly in securing housing plots and employment rights. Thanking the journalists for their overwhelming participation, he expressed confidence in TWJF’s ability to fight for their rights.

Assurance of Support from TWJF Leadership

TWJF State President Mangodi Somaiya reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to journalists’ welfare, stating that TWJF was formed in 2006 to combat dictatorial trends in journalism. He assured journalists that the federation would stand by them in any crisis, whether related to job security, wages, or personal threats.

State Vice President Rajasekhar addressed the issue of house plots for journalists, revealing that some individuals had misled journalists regarding the allotment process. He stated that TWJF had taken proactive measures to bring clarity and ensure that journalists receive their rightful benefits.

Union District Secretary Kothapalli Srinivasa Reddy also extended his gratitude to every journalist who joined the federation, strengthening its presence in Khammam.

New Members Pledge Support for TWJF’s Ideals

Among the new members, Syed Khadeer and Duvva Sagar spoke passionately about their reasons for joining TWJF. They emphasized that TWJF is the only organization genuinely fighting for journalists’ rights, unlike other unions that serve their personal interests. They criticized leaders of rival unions for neglecting the real issues faced by journalists and assured that TWJF would always stand with media professionals in times of need.

Symbolic Felicitation and Unity Display

Following the speeches, TWJF’s state and district leadership warmly welcomed new members by honoring them with shawls and flowers. This symbolic act reinforced the spirit of unity among journalists and showcased the growing influence of TWJF. The event concluded with a collective greeting by all the leaders, further solidifying the sense of solidarity among members.

Before the conclusion of the meeting, Union Treasurer Natha Venkateswarlu welcomed the guests to the stage, while Union District Vice President Balakrishna delivered the vote of thanks.

Prominent Attendees Strengthen TWJF’s Presence

The event witnessed the participation of several notable TWJF leaders, including Founding District President Parupalli Krishna Rao, Vice Presidents Garidepalli Venkateswarlu, Nagul Meera, Vishnu, Sridhar, Ramakrishna Nayak, Nagamani, Ramachandramurthy, Pasha, Arshad, Upender, Fayaz, Sarath, Satish, Rishi, Murthy, Narasimha Rao, Patti Srinu, and Sagar. Their presence underscored TWJF’s growing influence and its dedication to the betterment of journalists in Telangana.

The massive turnout and enthusiastic participation in the TWJF membership drive reflect the growing demand for a strong, independent journalist federation that prioritizes press freedom and journalist welfare. With new members joining in large numbers, TWJF is emerging as a powerful force, committed to protecting journalists from political pressures and advocating for their rights. The success of this event in Khammam sets the stage for further expansion and consolidation of TWJF’s influence across Telangana.