Shopian: Adv Owais Khan, Constituency Incharge for Apni Party in Shopian, has expressed strong support for the creation of a dedicated press club in the district, addressing the needs of local journalists who face various challenges due to limited infrastructure.

In a statement, Khan emphasized the essential role journalists play in keeping communities informed and in bringing important issues to light, highlighting the importance of providing them with the necessary resources and a secure working environment.

“Journalists play a critical role in shining a light on essential issues and in keeping our communities informed and engaged,” Khan remarked. “However, in Shopian, many of these journalists face significant challenges and lack the necessary infrastructure to carry out their duties effectively.”

According to Khan, the establishment of a press club would serve as a crucial step toward supporting journalists, offering them a safe space to work, collaborate, and discuss the unique challenges of their field. He underscored that such a facility would foster a sense of community, unity, and mutual support among local journalists.

“By supporting the establishment of a press club, we are investing in a future where journalists can work freely, safely, and with the respect they deserve,” Khan added, appealing to district administration officials, led by Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar, to act swiftly on this request. Khan emphasized that establishing a press club is vital for the growth, security, and empowerment of the press in Shopian, which he described as “our beautiful district.”

The call for a dedicated press club has resonated within Shopian’s journalistic community, which has long been advocating for improved resources to better fulfill their responsibilities to the public. Khan’s endorsement lends weight to their appeal, potentially accelerating efforts to create a conducive environment for local media professionals.