Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 4: "Time, energy, wealth, and even health may or may not support you, but good character, wisdom, and meaningful relationships will always support you throughout life. For these, social life is essential, and it is social unity that gives strength to any organization. Do not become a member of an association just to obtain an ID card. Instead, join to strengthen collective living and uphold the pride of unity," said Rons Bantwal, president of the Kannadiga Journalists' Association Maharashtra (Regd).
He was speaking after presiding over the 17th annual general body meeting of the association held on Sunday at the Club House auditorium of Solitaire Corporate Park in Andheri East, Mumbai.
"Journalists must be self-aware. It depends on how we treat others. In today's times, to be seen as a bad person in society, one doesn't need to commit evil acts—merely stating the truth or uttering bitter facts is enough for us to be seen as harsh. What matters is not how happy our life is, but how peaceful it is," he added.
Association vice president Dr Shiv Moodigere, general secretary Sa Daya (Dayanand Salian), treasurer Vishwanath Poojary Niddodi, joint secretary Savita S Shetty, and joint treasurer Dr Durgappa Y Kotiavar were present on the dais.
Advisory committee member CA IR Shetty said, "Since the media is the fourth pillar of democracy, it is not easy to advise journalists. The media has a constitutional role, and journalists are respected members of society. Kannadiga journalists in Maharashtra uphold ethics, professionalism, and discipline. It is commendable that they serve as a bridge between the Kannada language and the people of Karnataka and Maharashtra."
Another advisory committee member CA Jagadish B Shetty said, "Journalists reflect society and are intelligent individuals who adapt to all societal conditions. As guardians of the freedom of speech and expression, they are the voice of society. Therefore, it is essential to encourage journalists with pride and appreciation," he said, extending his wishes for the success of the association.
On behalf of the members, Gangadhar Paniyur and Vishwanath Niddodi shared their opinions and suggestions for the growth of the association.
Executive committee members Rang S Poojary, Dr GP Kusuma, Anita P Poojary Takode, Peter F D'Souza, Gopal Poojary Trasi, Shyam M Handhe, Sadaram N Shetty Sampadamane, advisory committee members Justice KP Prakash L Shetty, Surendra A Poojary, Lakshman C Poojary, Gregory D'Almeida, and special invitees Harish Poojary Kokkarnne, Dr Shivaram K Bhandary, Chandrashekhar R Belchad, and Sudhakar Uchchil was among the many who were present.
Dr Shiv Moodigere delivered the welcome address. Sa Daya (Dayanand) read the previous annual general body meeting report. Vishwanath Niddodi presented the previous year's financial statements. Dr Durgappa Y Kotiavar presented the budget for the year 2025-2026.
Later, the reputed chartered accountancy firm CA IR Shetty & Company was reappointed as auditors for the 2026 financial year.
Chandrashekhar R Belchad announced the results of the executive committee elections for the term 2025-2028 and officially declared the names of the 16 newly elected members.
A moment of silence was observed in memory of senior and junior journalists who passed away in the previous year. Savita S Shetty presented a report on the annual activities and proposed the vote of thanks.