The results were announced late Today evening following the annual elections of the Press Club of India, held at its headquarters in New Delhi. Sangeeta secured a clear majority, reflecting broad support across print, television, digital, and freelance journalist communities who are members of the club.
Founded in 1958, the Press Club of India has traditionally been led by male journalists, despite women playing a prominent role in Indian journalism for decades. Sangeeta’s elevation to the top post is being widely viewed as a symbolic and substantive shift in the club’s leadership culture.
Speaking after her election, Sangeeta described the moment as both an honour and a responsibility. She said the mandate reflected the changing realities of Indian journalism and the growing recognition of women’s contributions to the profession. She emphasised that her focus would be on protecting press freedom, strengthening unity among journalists, and addressing the professional and safety concerns faced by reporters across the country.
“The Press Club of India must remain a strong, independent voice for journalists at a time when the profession is under immense pressure,” she said. “This is not just a personal milestone, but a collective one for women journalists and for the media community as a whole.”
Colleagues and senior journalists congratulated Sangeeta, calling her election a “historic moment”. Many noted her long-standing association with the Press Club and her consistent engagement with issues related to media rights, working conditions, and ethical journalism.
Several journalist associations also welcomed the development, stating that the election sends a positive message at a time when women journalists continue to face challenges ranging from workplace discrimination to online harassment and safety risks in the field.
Outgoing office-bearers said the transition comes at a critical juncture, with journalism confronting challenges such as shrinking newsrooms, legal pressures, misinformation, and threats to editorial independence. They expressed confidence that Sangeeta’s leadership would help the club play a more proactive role in advocacy and dialogue with authorities.
The newly elected managing committee is expected to assume charge immediately. In the coming weeks, the new leadership is likely to outline its priorities, including welfare initiatives for journalists, greater inclusion of young and freelance reporters, and renewed engagement on issues affecting press freedom.
Sangeeta’s election is being seen not only as a personal achievement but as a milestone that could inspire more women journalists to seek leadership roles in media institutions across India.
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