‘Wrapped in concern over journalists’: Mumbai Press Club hits back at Rahul Gandhi’s ‘slave’ comments – Times of India

The Mumbai Press Club expressed strong disapproval of Rahul Gandhi’s comments on journalists, calling his remarks ‘very disturbing’ and indicative of a ‘wayward attitude’. Addressing a rally in Amaravati, Maharashtra, the Congress leader accused of working journalists of being subordinate to the ruling regime, by labeling them as ‘slaves of their owners’.
In a statement, the Mumbai Press Club condemned the tone of Gandhi’s comments, which it said had a “condescending” tinge despite being portrayed as caring for journalists. “Has Mr Gandhi ever thought about the root causes of the challenges faced by working journalists in India and the state of journalism as a whole?” the organization wondered.

“If Mr Gandhi really wants to address the plight of journalists, perhaps he should focus his criticism on media owners and structural issues within the industry,” the statement said. It was also pointed out that working journalists, who face constant threats of dismissal and operate in a saturated labor market, face significant risks when they challenge the system.
The group also expressed concern about Gandhi’s continued criticism of journalists, suggesting it raises questions about how his party might approach the media if it returns to power. “While we recognize the enormous challenges posed by the current government’s authoritarian tendencies towards the media, it is equally concerning to witness Mr Gandhi’s repeated attacks on journalists,” the report said. Comparing Gandhi’s comments to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s avoidance of press conferences, the organization said both approaches deserve criticism.
During his speech in Amaravati, Gandhi had said, “They (journalists) belong to them (BJP). It’s funny when I say that. They look at me and smile, as if to say, “Yes, we are theirs.” It’s not their fault. They want to work, they need a salary, they need to pay for their children’s education, they want to eat. They cannot antagonize their owner; they are a kind of slave.”
The Press Club countered that while journalists often face enormous pressure, dismissive rhetoric undermines their struggle and fails to address root causes such as job insecurity and declining protections. “Constructive dialogue and accountability, not dismissive comments, are what the media – and democracy – deserve,” the report concluded.
Maharashtra is gearing up for assembly elections on November 20, with votes to be counted on November 23. In 2019, the Congress won 44 seats, trailing the BJP and Shiv Sena.