Indian Media: Quo Vadis?

Context: 

This editorial is based on the news “Indian Media: Quo Vadis?” which was published in The Hindu.  This article expresses concern over the changing nature of the Indian media, the fourth pillar of democracy. Media is now focusing on “breaking news” culture and lacking on fact-checking.

Transformation of Indian Media Landscape Since 1991 Economic Liberalization

• On Quantity and Quality: Explosion in quantity and variety of Indian media offerings and impact on the quality of journalism
• Control of Government: Growth of broadcast media freed from government control
• On Interconnection: Due to impact of internet and social media

Issues with Current Indian Media Priorities and News Culture

• Sensationalism: Driven by “breaking news” without emphasis on substance
  • Privileges sensation over quality programming
• Ratings-Motivated: Television news competes fiercely for ratings, not public service 
• Unaccountable: Lack of fact-checking and accountability
  • Trial by media without establishing truth
• Exaggeration: Damaging impact of leaks and allegations reported irresponsibly
• Harm to Credibility & Ethics: Facts, opinions, speculations handled without distinction
  • Hasty reporting without editorial due diligence and Clarifications don’t get enough prominence
• Concerns regarding Democracy & Public Interest: Indian Media trivializes public discourse
  • Abandonment of watchdog role over government 
  • Weapon of mass distraction from real accountability 
  • Reputations damaged by malicious leaks/gossip

Way Forward

• Need for better journalism without Censorship: Free media, which is a cornerstone of democracy
  • Meant to keep government efficient and accountable
• Need for Improvement: Culture of fact-checking and accuracy
  • Training in ethical values, not sensationalism
  • Equally prominent retractions of false reporting 
  • Presentation of alternate perspectives, not echo chambers 
  • Public editor roles to acknowledge mistakes
  • Limits on media ownership concentration
  • Independent media oversight
• Responsible Indian Media: For growing literate populace and informed, engaged public vital for accountability are must
• • India can’t be a model democracy without model media 
• Reclaiming Indian Media’s Democratic Role: Government honesty, efficiency enabled by free press
  • Course correction needed to serve national interests