Bandipora: The Sonawari Journalist Association (SJA) held an important meeting on Wednesday following a recent controversy involving National Conference MLA Sonawari, Hilal Akbar Lone. During the session, Lone referred to the media fraternity as “vital for society” and praised journalists for their professionalism, affectionately calling them “family.”
The meeting comes after an earlier incident where MLA Hilal Akbar Lone allegedly misbehaved with a journalist during an official review meeting. According to SJA members present at the event, the lawmaker reportedly asked a journalist to leave the hall, a move that left many in the media community disappointed and aggrieved.
In response, the journalists of the Sonawari Journalist Association expressed deep concern over the treatment of media professionals. They emphasized the importance of mutual respect between public representatives and the press, announcing a boycott of MLA Hilal Akbar Lone.
However, in an apparent attempt to ease tensions, Lone issued a conciliatory statement on his official Facebook page. He wrote, “A recent misunderstanding with the media fraternity has been amicably resolved. I consider them family—just like everyone in Sonawari. Their professionalism is commendable.”
Following this public statement, the SJA convened a meeting to discuss the situation. After thorough deliberation, the association decided to call off the boycott, acknowledging the MLA’s outreach and commitment to maintaining respectful relations with the press.
The association expressed hope that such misunderstandings will not occur in the future and that both sides will work together to uphold democratic values and journalistic freedom.
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