The Gauhati Press Club (GPC) on December 26 marked a landmark moment by organising its first-ever Women Journalists’ Conclave, titled “Let’s Talk,” at its premises. The day-long event, supported by the Assamese magazine Nandini, brought together around 200 journalists and created a dedicated space to discuss gender-specific challenges within the media profession.

The inaugural session was attended by Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty, the newly elected President of the Press Club of India (PCI), as the chief guest. She was joined on the dais by Smitakshi B. Goswami, CMD of Pratidin Time, and senior journalist Maini Mahanta.

Addressing the gathering, Pisharoty spoke candidly about the current state of Indian journalism and stressed that press freedom remains the backbone of the profession.
“Our role as journalists is to question power, and that responsibility cannot exist without genuine press freedom,” she said.

She also raised concerns over the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, warning that certain provisions could restrict journalistic work and access to information. Pisharoty revealed that the PCI is considering challenging the Act and plans to engage with press clubs across the country, including the Gauhati Press Club, to build a collective response.

Smitakshi B. Goswami described Pisharoty’s election as PCI President as a moment of optimism for the media fraternity.
“At a time when journalism is under immense pressure, the victory of an independent journalist who is fearless and principled is truly a ray of hope,” she said, reaffirming her commitment to ethical journalism.

Following the inaugural session, the conclave featured three panel discussions with eminent women journalists from Assam. The panels focused on workplace realities faced by women in media, touching upon issues of safety, representation, career progression, and work-life balance. Journalists from print, television, and digital platforms shared personal experiences from their journeys as reporters, anchors, and desk professionals.

The conclave concluded with a shared resolve to continue conversations around gender equity, professional support systems, and stronger solidarity among women journalists, making “Let’s Talk” a meaningful step towards a more inclusive media landscape in Assam.