The press has always been a key instrument in every society and state. The role played by the press is always recognised, respected and acknowledged. The press plays a critical role in every democratic society. Their rights are always protected and their dignity to write without fear or favour is always preserved. The press is also instrumental for creating awareness in enlightening the government and its people and is often used by all individuals, statesmen, politicians and non-governmental organisations.

However, the comments made by the Information Minister Zainuddin Maidin recently that the reporting of sensitive issues by the press can bring about dire consequence to the country at large is nothing but an immature statement. This is nothing but a desperate attempt on the part of the information minister to once again force and invite the press to dance to his music. This is a further attempt to curb their fundamental right to report on sensitive issues. The rights of the press have effectively been molested by the government machinery. Why?

From the reading of his comments, it is clear that the minister is cleverly discouraging open discussion and reporting on sensitive issues. This certainly does not auger well on the government. It appears that many have failed to appreciate and understand the serious role played by the press in a fast developing state.

Every government must have the desire and ambition to have a well-informed public which is so important for the progress of the state. Unfortunately, there are elements within the government fighting hard to restrict this. The statement by the information minister is not an encouraging step and instead an unprecedented move to gain mileage with a hidden agenda.

The Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) urges that every press adopt a more pragmatic and positive approach when reporting on sensitive issues. We actually invite and encourage the press to be more prudent when reporting on such issues but at no time should reporting on such sensitive issues stop.

Such reporting would be useful to each and every individual and would be an eye-opener. If we believe in democracy, multi-racialism and secularism, perhaps immature remarks such as the one reported by the said minister can be avoided. Also take note that democracy and press freedom must coexist if we desire to achieve progress. There is no room for back street and unprogressive remarks.

The writer is chairman, Hindu Rights Action Force.