The Mumbai Press Club has criticized Congress MP Rahul Gandhi for his controversial remarks on journalists during a rally in Amaravati, Maharashtra, on November 16. In the rally, Gandhi alleged that journalists were biased toward the BJP, describing them as “slaves of their owners” (ghulams) and attributing their behavior to the pressures of earning a livelihood and supporting their families.
The Press Club, in a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on November 18, expressed concern over what it termed Gandhi’s “high-handed attitude toward working journalists.” The statement added, “While cloaked in concern for the plight of journalists, his comments carried a tone of condescension that warrants closer scrutiny.”
Gandhi claimed during the rally that mediapersons covering the event silently acknowledged their alignment with the BJP. Referring to past instances, such as his criticism of land acquisition policies during the 2011 Bhatta-Parsaul issue in Uttar Pradesh, Gandhi alleged that journalists had consistently opposed him since he began raising such matters.
The Mumbai Press Club responded by suggesting that Gandhi’s criticisms were misdirected. “If Mr. Gandhi truly wishes to address the plight of journalists, he should redirect his critique toward media owners and the systemic issues within the industry,” the statement read. It further highlighted the challenges journalists face, including job insecurity and oversupply in the profession, which hinder their ability to challenge the system.
The comments have sparked debate about the role of media in politics and the challenges journalists face in maintaining neutrality amid political pressures. Gandhi’s remarks have drawn criticism for generalizing the struggles of working journalists while failing to address the structural issues impacting media independence.