Bengal CM urges journalists not to compromise on patriotism
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has urged journalists to prioritize patriotism and avoid content that could incite religious tension. He also announced expanded social security benefits, including increased pensions and broader health insurance coverage for journalists in the state.
Why it matters
This policy shift reflects changing state-media relations and highlights the government's attempt to balance press freedom with nationalist rhetoric and welfare expansion.
Observing that journalists are free to engage in meaningful criticism of his government, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday (September 1, 2026) said that they should ensure that patriotism never gets compromised through their work.
“Criticise me and criticise the party. You can also hold constructive discussions and come to meet us if necessary. But when it comes to patriotism, everyone must follow a strict policy. None of us should do anything that weakens the country or creates instability,” he said.
Mr. Adhikari also urged journalists to refrain from making remarks that hurt the religious sentiments of any community. The Chief Minister made these remarks while launching social security schemes for journalists, which included health insurance and a pension for those who have attained 60 years of age.
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