Our promise
to journalism remains uncompromised
Six years ago, we
embarked on a journey with a simple yet powerful belief: journalism must serve
the truth, not vested interests. As we celebrate our 7th Foundation Day on October 20, 2026, we reflect on a journey
marked by challenges, lessons, cherished relationships and, above all, an
unwavering commitment to journalistic principles.
Our journey has not
always been smooth. As a small news portal primarily focused on business
journalism, while covering other important developments, we have faced
obstacles, including humiliation from public relations agencies and corporate
communications professionals over stories that did not suit their interests.
Some expected editorial concessions in return for advertisements, even
suggesting that we seek their consent before publishing anything they
considered negative about their companies. What they call negative, we often
regard as facts deserving public scrutiny.
We have received
late-night calls requesting us to drop stories perceived as damaging to
corporate reputations. At times, we have obliged. Yet, some who once sought our
cooperation later became reluctant to respond to our calls. Others dismissed us
as an insignificant portal.
These experiences
have been bitter, but instructive. Journalism cannot be measured merely by an
organisation's size, advertising revenue or influence. Its true worth lies in
credibility, fairness and the courage to ask difficult questions.
Thankfully, our
journey has also brought heart-warming experiences. Several respected corporate
houses have appreciated our work without seeking editorial favours. Some have
even reminded us not to publish their press releases unless they meet our
editorial standards. Such gestures reaffirm our faith that responsible
corporate communication and independent journalism can coexist through mutual
respect.
Our readers remain
our greatest source of encouragement. Their appreciation, constructive
criticism and assurances of support have strengthened our resolve. We are
grateful to our critics, whose observations help us improve; our readers, who
inspire us; and our patrons, whose unwavering, unconditional support sustains
our journey.
We acknowledge that
we are a small entity. But being small does not mean being insignificant, and
limited resources must never translate into limited principles. Journalism's
credibility depends not on the size of its platform, but on the integrity of
its purpose.
As we enter our
seventh year, we renew our pledge to uphold journalism's enduring legacy
through independence, responsibility, fairness and courage. We will strive to
distinguish facts from perceptions, remain open to criticism, offer relevant
stakeholders a fair opportunity to respond, and resist pressures seeking to
influence our editorial judgement.
The road ahead will
undoubtedly bring fresh challenges. We recognise that credibility must be
earned every day, through every story published and every decision made.
As we celebrate this
milestone, we express gratitude for the journey behind us and hope for the
journey ahead. We seek your continued blessings, trust and goodwill as we
strive to grow, learn and serve with greater responsibility. May the years
ahead strengthen our bonds with readers, well-wishers and patrons, inspiring us
to contribute meaningfully to the noble pursuit of journalism.
Six years have shaped
our journey; your trust will continue to inspire our future. We turn the page
with gratitude, conviction and hope for many more meaningful chapters together.
Priyabrat
Biswal,
Editor, THEBUSINESSBYTES.COM
