As India grapples with a devastating COVID-19 crisis, the news isn't just reporting on the tragedy—it's becoming part of it. The problem isn't just what is being reported, but the alarming lack of journalistic integrity behind the stories.
Source: Freedom House Report 2021
We've seen Twitter censor tweets critical of the government's pandemic response, and pro-government TV channels wildly blame farmers' protests for oxygen shortages, when the real cause was a crumbling public health system. This isn't just misleading; it's deeply traumatic for those suffering and poses a real threat to India's democracy.
This isn't a new problem. Long before COVID, the media's independence was already compromised. Many newspapers rely heavily on government funds for their survival. The current BJP government has been known to pull advertising from papers that don't toe the party line. This financial pressure creates a cycle where media outlets endorse government policies in exchange for funding and prominence, which in turn shapes public opinion to favor those in power. This cozy relationship doesn't just distort the news—it puts journalists who dare to be critical in real danger.
Source: The Hindu: Media Funding and Politics
How Bias Works?
A study of India's major newspapers and TV channels from 2017-2018 confirmed this rampant bias. Researchers found that most outlets were far from neutral, especially on hot-button issues like religion and caste. This media bias directly correlates with their audiences holding similar biased views.
Source: Sage Journals Study on Indian Media Bias
Why This is a Threat to Democracy
- It silences critics and endangers journalists: Groups like Freedom House give India a low score for press freedom, noting attacks on journalists under Modi.
- It withholds life-saving information: When the government cracks down on COVID coverage, it prevents people from getting critical information, like where to find food and shelter during a lockdown.
- It manipulates voters: Biased media acts as propaganda, skewing what people believe is true.
A Path Forward?
The hope lies with smaller, independent outlets. Many of them already refuse government funding and strive for balanced reporting. These are the voices that deserve our attention and support. By actively seeking out and supporting such independent media, readers can contribute to a more informed and unbiased public discourse. Communities can also foster media literacy, helping people identify bias and critically evaluate the news they consume. Over time, these combined efforts may build a media ecosystem that prioritizes truth and integrity over political or financial influence, ensuring that journalism serves its true purpose: holding power accountable and keeping the public well-informed.