Imphal, Jul 28: In an endeavour to avoid any possible stand off between security forces and media persons in the future while discharging their respective duties in the State, a discussion programme on media management was held today at HQs 9 Sector Assam Rifles, Keithelmanbi. The discussion participated by three senior journalists and officers and JCOs of 32 AR, 22 Maratha LI, 21 AR and 4 AR made a study of the obligations of both the security forces and media persons in conflict situations.

Speaking on the occasion, PRO of IG AR (South) Lt Col Mathur acknowledged the constraints endured by media persons in terms of time factor while collecting news reports to meet the deadline of filing their reports.

He remarked that military-media relationship should not be strained under any circumstances.

Lt Col Mathur also mentioned the certain dos and don'ts for soldiers while dealing with media persons.

Explaining the difficulties and inconveniences faced by reporters while discharging their duties in conflict zones which often saw stand off between security forces and scribes, the senior journalists maintained that it is their duty to cover all events.

They further observed that such misunderstanding between security forces and media persons can be avoided only when security forces abide by the guidelines given to them while dealing with the media at sensitive places.

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