PDP Leader Rafique Rather Honors the Resilience of Journalists Reporting from Conflict Zones; Calls for Press Freedom and Safer Work Environments.

On World Press Freedom Day, we stand in solidarity with journalists around the globe who continue to uphold the values of truth, transparency, and accountability—often at great personal risk and in extremely adverse working conditions. This was stated by *PDP Leader Mohd Rafique Rather* in a press release today.
Rather said that “This year’s theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,” reminds us not only of the vital role the media plays in environmental awareness, but also of the broader significance of a free and fearless press in sustaining democratic societies through out the globe. Rafique Rather added that across the world, journalists face growing threats—from censorship and surveillance to harassment, intimidation and violence. The press, once seen as the cornerstone of liberty, is increasingly targeted for simply doing its job in a fair way in particular, we must acknowledge the exceptional courage of journalists operating in regions of conflict and unrest. In places like Kashmir, where media personnel work in extremely challenging and often intimidating environments, their dedication to reporting the truth deserves special recognition. Despite curbs on communication and mounting pressures, many continue to report with integrity, bearing witness to ground realities that may otherwise remain unseen.
Rafique Rather said that, “On this day, we call upon governments, civil society, and international institutions to reaffirm their commitment to press freedom, to protect journalists, and to ensure that the voice of truth is never silenced.He further said that “let us remember: A free press is not a threat to power—it is a safeguard of justice.