Hubli, Mar 14, (PTI): Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa on Sunday voiced concern over the ''increasing extent of yellow journalism'' and urged the fourth estate to end such unhealthy trends by drawing a line or 'lakshman rekha' for themselves and report objectively.

Speaking at function organised by Manipal Media Network Limited, he drew attention to the electronic media and said some channels report without verifying facts. "Their vested interests and manipulation is clear through majority of reports aired by them," he said.

Journalists should draw a 'laxman rekha' and report news objectively, he said. The Chief Minister opined that relations between the media and the government, which respects freedom of the press, should be healthy.

He said the government had formed a committee to look into welfare masures for journalists and to provide a conducive atmposhere to enable them discharge their duties in a free and fair manner.