By Matters India Reporter
DALLAS, October 27 2026: Investigative journalist Mathew Samuel was conferred with the inaugural Pandita Ramabai Award at a ceremony in Dallas, Texas, October 25, 2026.
The national-level award, instituted by the Christian Fellowship for India (CFI), was presented during a conference held to address growing concerns surrounding human rights and religious freedom.
The honor recognizes Samuel’s courageous media interventions and uncompromising commitment to investigative journalism in India despite significant personal and professional risks.
Senior journalist and D-Malayali Chief Editor P. P. Cherian presented the award on behalf of the organization.
Presiding over the conference, CFI Chairman Pastor Mathew Samuel underscored the critical role of fearless journalism in defending public integrity and constitutional values.
Introducing the chief guest, CFI Secretary Pastor Shaji Karakkal highlighted Samuel’s contribution to exposing corruption through high-profile investigative exposés, including his tenure as Managing Editor of Tehelka and founder of Narada News.
Named after Pandita Ramabai—the pioneering 19th-century Indian social reformer, educator, and champion of women’s emancipation—the award seeks to honor media professionals and social advocates demonstrating exceptional integrity in public life.
Accepting the award, Samuel emphasized the urgency of protecting independent journalism in challenging socio-political environments.
“Truth-telling in journalism has become an increasingly high-risk endeavor, yet it remains the bedrock of a free society. I accept this award on behalf of those journalists who continue to report unvarnished truths despite severe intimidation and systemic resistance,” Samuel stated during his response to the assembly.
Expressing gratitude to the organizers, CFI Treasurer Rev. Thomas Mullakkal reaffirmed the fellowship’s intent to make the Pandita Ramabai Award an annual tradition to recognize individuals serving society through truth and social reform.
The event brought together Christian leaders, media figures, and representatives from civil society organizations across the diaspora.
(Photo supplied)