Silchar: The Barak Democratic Front (BDF) has called for the revival of the Doordarshan Kendra in Silchar, urging the government to establish a dedicated satellite television channel and modern broadcasting infrastructure to preserve and promote the region’s cultural identity and local news coverage.

In a press statement, BDF Media Cell Convenor Joydeep Bhattacharya said the Silchar Doordarshan Kendra, which once played a vital role in broadcasting local news and showcasing the diverse culture and traditions of the Barak Valley, is now on the verge of closure due to prolonged government neglect and the lack of technological upgradation.

Drawing parallels with other defunct government projects in the valley, including the Cachar Sugar Mill, Badarpur Textile Mill and Panchgram Paper Mill, Bhattacharya alleged that the Doordarshan centre was facing a similar fate because of official apathy. He also expressed concern over what he described as the silence of most public representatives and civil society on the issue.

Recalling the efforts of former MP Kabindra Purkayastha, Bhattacharya said it was under his initiative that local news bulletins from the Silchar Doordarshan Kendra had begun. However, he claimed that no meaningful steps had been taken subsequently to modernise or sustain the facility.

He said that with terrestrial transmitters having become largely obsolete, the revival of the centre would require the establishment of a dedicated satellite television channel supported by an earth station. According to him, the proposed channel could initially broadcast for at least 12 hours daily before eventually being integrated into the national broadcasting network.

Bhattacharya also stressed the need to recruit qualified and dedicated professionals to ensure the smooth functioning of the proposed satellite channel. He maintained that the Barak Valley has no shortage of capable media professionals and said that, with adequate investment and skilled manpower, the initiative could significantly strengthen the region’s media landscape.

Welcoming reports that Barak Valley MP Kanad Purkayastha has already taken up the matter with the Central Government, Bhattacharya said the BDF supports the initiative and is prepared to extend all possible cooperation.

He further argued that the people of the Barak Valley, numbering over four million, deserve a national platform to showcase their culture, voice their concerns and highlight regional issues, as they contribute to the nation’s revenue like citizens elsewhere. He urged the government to recognise this legitimate demand and appealed to the people of the valley to become more aware of and vocal in support of the revival of the Silchar Doordarshan Kendra.

The information was shared in a press release issued by BDF Convenor Hrishikesh Dey.