It would be an understatement to say that the current state of Indian media, be it print, digital or television is not what it used to be, say twenty years ago. While the internet and advanced use of technology have reached news to millions, the quality of this news is lacking in noble intent, in it’s ability to shape public opinions, leave alone change the course of national agenda.
On the face of it, with the proliferation of countless news channels, journalism seems positively buzzing, functioning as an important tool of the country’s democracy. But in reality, newsrooms are mainly engaged in the incessant repetition of routine events couched in brazenness and sensationalism to make up for the lack (at times deliberate) of investigative reports and exclusive news stories.
Traditionally, the media has acted as the watchdog of public interest. Adherence to accepted norms of journalistic ethics and high standards of professional conduct was a natural corollary. But sadly, times have changed. Today, media entrepreneurship in whatever form, is a necessity for a political party, or a growing business house. Journalism, like any other commercial commodity, is being trafficked for money and power. Every news story, report or enquiry is about increasing circulation and TRP’s, rather than credibility. Watchdog journalism is being steadily replaced by ‘lapdog’ journalism; as is evident by the political affiliations of numerous news channels. In such a scenario, how can news be unbiased and fearless?
Real journalists, independent minded and unbiased are being sidelined by newsroom administrators who know whose interests are to be highlighted, how much and on what terms. News is ‘fixed’. Lobbies are catered to. The current style of journalism caters to the lowest common denominators in it’s style, language and functioning. The relaying of news is being dumbed down on a mass scale. It’s all about quick sound bites to entice viewers. Plagiarised videos without so much as a by-your-leave are not uncommon; and journalists conduct discussions with high levels of melodrama and little substance.
The corporisation of media, the trend of paid news and formation of select treaties are some of the reasons for the malady affecting current media. Powerful politicians and large business houses wield inappropriate influence over news channels via their embedded PR journalists.
The fundamental value of journalism, that is to primarily keep public interest first and foremost, is being eroded. And if corrective action is not taken, the ticker tape on our screens will continue to flash breaking news that reports the impending divorce between two film stars.
devikanam98 