The Prasar Bharati’s decision to close down All India Radio’s Ananthapuri FM without any notice has come in for sharp criticism from the public as well as leaders of various political parties. Leaders of the ruling Left Democratic Front as well as the Opposition United Democratic Front have shot off letters to the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur as well as Prasar Bharati CEO Gaurav Dwivedi demanding the reinstatement of the channel with a wide listenership.
Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan, in his letter to Mr. Thakur, said that the decision has led to the unfortunate dismissal of many dedicated and hardworking casual staff who have served the institution for years.
“Ananthapuri FM holds historical significance as the first FM station in Thiruvananthapuram. It has garnered a massive listener base of 4.5 million people. The station serves as a valuable medium for disseminating information and promoting culture. Any changes that impact its services would have a significant effect on the millions of listeners who rely on it. It is learnt that the station contributes approximately ₹1.5 crore annually. Given its financial viability, accommodating another FM transmitter would not be a burden,” he said in the letter.
