Journalism
Journalism or press is considered as 4th pillar of democracy and is termed as ‘voice of the weakest’. Journalism is a fierce profession and they believe in the aphorism that ‘ Pen is mightier than sword’.
Journalist always tend to simplify the complex information for the consumption of public but they do this with complete accuracy. Society is becoming dormant and lethargic towards societal problems but journalism in all of its forms is taking the society out from these negative aspects through debates, discussions, factual news, interviews etc.
Some examples of journalism which created a sanguine environment in our country-
#MeToo movement concerning the accusations of sexual harassment against prominent figures was a watershed moment. Media’s coverage of the rape case of Jyoti and Nirbhaya resulted in widespread protest and later, in reforms to criminal laws. Most importantly, during the period of Covid-19 pandemic- through electronic, print and social media higher authorities made sure to provide relevant information to public during lockdown in terms of precuation and preventions.
Democracy should encourage development of journalism as thus it can work without any pressure from political wing or anyone else. A burdenless journalism adds to the strong democracy. A country remains a democracy when the press is free.
India has a great legacy of newspapers that have acted as catalyst of social and political change. Newspapers were run by social reformers and political activists in order to raise awareness. For instance, Dr. B.R Ambedkar launched ‘Mooknayak’, ‘Bahishkrut Bharat’ for the rights of neglected communities.
Nowadays, we are not limited to print media, we have electronic media where youths are creating their own media channels and readers have short attention span as news now is coverted to Youtube shorts and instagram reel. Local journalism has educated people and made them raise concerns regarding local issues which is not covered in national mainstream media. So as the community journalism has made the members of a community to be a voice of thier own issues.
Youth in the recent years are taking interest in legal journalism which is journalism related to law and justice system. This include working on complexities of law.
Problems related to journalism-
- Yellow journalism- Emphasis on sensationalism over facts. Attract readers , increase revenue and circulation. Fake news which can misguide millions of people. Mainly in India it is creating tension between communities. For this a comprehensive fact checking mechanism is to be created where AI can be used. For ex. PIB fact check in India
- Lack of diverse newsroom with well researched points
- Trial by media- many a times media has carried a narrative where a person is made guilty in the eyes of public before the court finds him/her guilty.
Transparent and responsible journalism is the backbone of every nation which will guide us to a better tomorrow. It should be based on truth, justice and equality. In this digital era it is very important for journalists to maintain impartiality and work towards growth of the nation.
