A First in 67 Years: Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty Elected President of Press Club of India

Senior journalist Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty has been elected as the President of the Press Club of India (PCI) for the 2025–26 term, marking a historic milestone in the institution’s 67-year history.

Pisharoty’s election is significant on multiple counts. She becomes the first woman President of the Press Club of India since its inception and also the first journalist from the North East to hold the prestigious post.

According to the official election results declared on Saturday, Pisharoty secured a decisive victory with 1,019 votes, defeating her nearest rival Atul Mishra, who garnered 129 votes. Another contender, Arun Sharma, received 89 votes. The elections were held on December 13, 2025.

Other Office Bearers Elected

• Vice-President: Jatin Gandhi (1,029 votes)

• Secretary General: Afzal Imam (948 votes)

• Joint Secretary: P. R. Sunil Kumar (elected unopposed)

• Treasurer: Aditi Rajput (elected unopposed)

In addition, 16 members were elected to the Managing Committee, representing a diverse cross-section of the journalistic fraternity.

A Landmark Moment for Indian Journalism

Pisharoty’s elevation to the top post is being widely seen as a watershed moment for gender representation and regional inclusion in Indian journalism. Her victory reflects growing support for voices from the North East and a renewed emphasis on diversity within one of the country’s most influential media institutions.

Founded in 1958, the Press Club of India has long been a central platform for journalists across print, digital, and broadcast media, advocating press freedom and professional solidarity.

The newly elected managing committee and office bearers will assume charge for the 2025–26 term, with expectations high for a progressive and inclusive tenure under Pisharoty’s leadership.

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