Gonda: The Uttar Pradesh Journalists Association (UPJA) has honoured Deputy Inspector General of Police, Devipatan Range, Ashok Kumar Shukla with the first Mantu Tiwari Memorial Honour for his courage, dedication to duty, outstanding security services, impartiality and honest working style.
The honour was presented during a dignified ceremony held on Tuesday, marking the beginning of an initiative by the UPJA family to preserve the memory of late journalist Brijnandan Tiwari, popularly known as Mantu Tiwari. A former parishad member of the association, Tiwari was remembered for his fearless journalism and commitment to public concerns.
Accepting the honour, DIG Ashok Kumar Shukla appreciated the initiative undertaken by UPJA.
Honouring a Legacy of Fearless Journalism
Late Brijnandan Tiwari was remembered for his forthright approach, courage and dedication to public welfare. He regarded journalism not merely as a means of gathering news, but as a responsibility to highlight society’s concerns and raise a voice against injustice.
UPJA State President Dr G.C. Srivastava said Mantu Tiwari’s life and work represented a journalistic tradition in which standing with the truth was considered a duty rather than a choice. He said the memorial honour recognised honest work, fearless thinking and public service. He added that DIG Shukla’s professional conduct reflected a combination of dedication and human sensitivity, making him a fitting first recipient.
UPJA Gonda district unit General Secretary Pramod Nandan Srivastava said that although journalists like Mantu Tiwari were no longer present, their ideas, journalism and commitment to society would continue to inspire future generations. He added that the honour would convey the message that integrity and dedication remain worthy of recognition beyond time.
Advocate and senior journalist association Treasurer Rampher Prajapati said journalists and police personnel were both important guardians of society. While journalists bring social problems and irregularities to public attention, the police are responsible for maintaining law and order and protecting citizens. Honouring a dedicated police officer in memory of a fearless journalist was therefore a meaningful and inspiring initiative, he said.
During the ceremony, tributes were paid to Mantu Tiwari, with participants recalling his personality and contribution to journalism. Speakers said that although he was no longer physically present, his commitment to journalism and public welfare would remain alive.
The UPJA family resolved to continue the memorial honour tradition and recognise individuals who demonstrate integrity and responsibility towards society and the nation through their work.
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