Darjeeling Press Guild holds AGM, makes new appointments

EOI, Darjeeling, 1 December 2013: The Darjeeling Press Guild today held its fifth Annual General Meeting as it had been deferred from the original date in August due to the political turmoil prevailing then. 

DPG members comprising working journalists and photojournalists of various print and electronic media houses were present to elect their new president and general secretary. Vivek Chhetri from The Telegraph was elected DPG president while Vikram Rai of Channel 10 was elected the Guild’s general secretary (second term). 

By virtue of receiving the second highest vote numbers, Bimal Rai of Himalaya Darpan was elected vice president, while Pranab Chhetri from 24 Ghanta (electronic media) was made the assistant secretary. DPG general secretary Vikram Rai said the DPG would work to resolve problems being faced by members while keeping a close relation with the district administration, police and social bodies. 

“It is an honour to be elected for a second term. This means Guild members have a lot of faith in me. I will ensure this faith does not go in vain and will work as a team for everyone’s benefit. There are several journalist-related issues that need to be addressed here in the hills,” pointed out Rai. 

Echoing similar sentiments, newly-elected president Vivek Chhetri said, “I will try to work in the best interest of the Guild members. It is important that we understand members’ problems, which may be varied, and try to resolve them in the best possible ways. We must also ensure and not forget journalism ethics while doing our duty.” 

Outgoing president Amitava Banerjee of the Hindustan Times wished the new incumbents luck and assured all cooperation in making the DPG a strong force and voice of the people. 

Other portfolio holders include Mohan Lama of Samay Dainik, who was unanimously elected treasurer, while Binay Shankar of The Echo of India is the new assistant treasurer.