“Social media has increasingly become a disruptive force in society, spreading misinformation and misleading people,” said MP Dr. C.N. Manjunath. He stressed that it is the responsibility of print media to safeguard truth and restore social health.
Speaking at the Press Day celebrations organized by the Bengaluru South District Working Journalists’ Association at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Bhavan in Ramanagara on Tuesday, Dr. Manjunath warned that while a terrorist may kill a few dozen people, a “social terrorist” can derail an entire system. Referring to the Dharmasthala case, he said it was a clear example of the dangers posed by unchecked content on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.
He described these platforms as the “dark side of modern technology,” while calling print journalism the true pillar of democracy. Journalists, he said, must treat their profession as sacred, verify facts before reporting, and serve as bridges for society rather than walls.
Highlighting India’s growing strength in defense production and recalling Operation Sindhur, Dr. Manjunath urged media to focus not just on politics but also on developmental issues. He also announced a grant of ₹10 lakh from his MP fund for the construction of a Press Bhavan in the district.
Other speakers, including MLA H.C. Balakrishna, Deputy CM’s Media Advisor P. Thyagaraj, and state journalists’ leaders, echoed the need to uphold journalistic values. The event also featured Pratibha Puraskars for students and felicitations for distinguished guests.
