The programme commenced with a heartfelt tribute to the journalist martyrs who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of free expression. Special mention was made of Nirmal Rai, a reporter and photographer for Janpath Samachar, who was brutally murdered during the Gorkhaland agitation in 1988. Rai’s body was discovered beheaded, with his head found hanging at Katherine Graham Park in Damber Chowk, serving as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones. The gathering observed a moment of silence in his memory, as well as in honor of all journalists who have lost their lives in the fight for press freedom.

Umesh Tamang, the programme conductor, welcomed guests and participants with a thoughtful address, highlighting that “Journalists are pathfinders,” emphasizing the crucial role the media plays in shaping public discourse.

AK Rai, President of the Kalimpong Press Club, took the audience on a reflective journey through the club’s history. He shared how the Kalimpong Press Club was founded in 1995 by a group of local journalists and initially organized as the Kaleybung Patrakar Sangh. Key members included Lalit Golay as president, Late B.K. Shilal as vice president, and Suman Gurung as secretary. However, this first attempt to organize the community of journalists remained dormant for several years. In 1998, a renewed effort led to the formal establishment of the Press Club of Kalimpong.

In 1999, the club was reconstituted with a full executive committee, including Late K.W. Molommu as president, Late B.K. Shilal as vice president, K.P. Gautam as secretary, and A.K. Rasaily and Anil Lopchan as assistant secretaries. Over the years, the club has grown in stature, establishing a two-story office building, providing essential facilities like water and electricity, and officially registering with the municipality for household tax purposes. President AK Rai highlighted the club’s significant contributions to both the media community and the town of Kalimpong. From humble beginnings, the club’s office expanded from a single-story structure to a two-story building with modern amenities, including water and electricity connections. The Press Club was also officially registered with the municipality for household tax purposes. Rai emphasized how the club has become a cornerstone of both journalistic integrity and community development.

Arun Kr. Rasaily, Chief Advisor of KPC and President of the Eastern Himalayan Journalists Union, paid tribute to past journalists who played key roles in promoting press freedom in the region. He spoke about the changing landscape of journalism in today’s fast-paced digital world, stressing the importance of maintaining integrity and upholding the principles of truth while navigating the complexities of modern media.

Rudra Karki, Vice President of KPC, addressed the ethical responsibilities of journalists in today’s world. He highlighted the necessity of working within legal frameworks such as those set by the Press Council of India, and adhering to court orders and legal acts. Karki reminded journalists that while press freedom is a fundamental right, it must be exercised with a sense of responsibility, ensuring it does not harm national unity, security, or international relations.

Mani Tamang, Assistant Secretary of KPC, focused on the transformative impact of digital journalism. He discussed the expanding reach and influence of digital media while cautioning that it comes with its own set of challenges, including the rise of misinformation. Tamang emphasized the need for journalists to be vigilant and ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information they report, particularly in an age of rapid information dissemination.

K.P. Gautam, a founding secretary of the KPC, delivered the keynote address, offering a historical perspective on the state of journalism in Kalimpong. Recalling his experiences from the 1980s, Gautam shared how he faced threats from both political groups and the administration while working with Himalchuli. He recounted a particularly harrowing incident in 1982, when a political faction threatened to behead him, yet he managed to survive. Gautam reflected on the improvements in the safety and professional standing of journalists today, but urged his fellow journalists to remain resilient and adaptable as they navigate the challenges of an ever-evolving media landscape.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by DK Waiba Tamang, who expressed gratitude to all participants and underscored the importance of unity and collective action among journalists in advancing press freedom. The second session of the day featured a meeting of the KPC’s Executive Committee, where new members were granted membership, and discussions were held on organizational matters, including ongoing efforts to enhance the infrastructure and operations of the Press Club.

As the Kalimpong Press Club celebrates its 26th year of service to journalism, its leaders reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding press freedom, supporting the rights of journalists, and continuing to contribute to the social, cultural, and infrastructural development of Kalimpong. Looking ahead, the club remains dedicated to its mission of fostering excellence in journalism and upholding the values of truth, integrity, and public service.

The theme for this year’s celebrations, “The Changing Nature of the Press,” highlights the evolving dynamics of journalism in the digital age. The KPC and EHJU expressed optimism that journalists would adapt to the challenges posed by technology, audience behavior, and new media formats, all while upholding the core values of press freedom and ethical responsibility.