Is the Indian Media Straying from Ethical Journalism?

In recent reports, the media in India has faced criticism for its ethical practices, particularly in the wake of the Abubakar Mohammad Ali Shaikh case, where he duped women by offering so-called cancer cures that were actually fraudulent. This incident and others have raised questions about the overall integrity and methods of Indian news outlets.

The Case of Abubakar Mohammad Ali Shaikh

Abubakar Mohammad Ali Shaikh, identified as a tantrik, built a deceptive network, luring women with promises of cancer cures. His modus operandi, in addition to the fraudulent claims, included misleading women about the need to donate to various shrines, further complicating potential legal investigations.

Secularism in Indian Media

Secularism, a core principle in Indian media, aims to maintain neutrality in terms of religious and political matters. However, the mechanisms by which this is achieved are often criticized, especially when the media is seen as more focused on sensationalism and ratings rather than substantive reporting.

Bias in Indian Media

While secularism promotes neutrality, the reality is somewhat different. The article posits that many media outlets in India are either owned by business tycoons or aligned with political parties. This influence limits their ability to work for ethics and instead, they are driven by financial incentives. The editorial stance in these cases often reflects the whims of their financial backers, rather than journalistic integrity.

Current State of Indian Media

Many argue that Indian media has become more focused on gaining viewership and advertisements, rather than providing valuable, educational, and unbiased content. This shift has resulted in a landscape where the news is predominantly dominated by negative political coverage and sensationalist stories about celebrities and lifestyle. Such trends have created an atmosphere of distrust and disappointment among the public, leading to a decrease in public engagement and a negative perception of politics.

What Should Media Show?

For a truly informative and ethical media landscape, it is suggested that news outlets should:

Highlight Inspirational Stories: Stories about individuals achieving success from humble beginnings, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders who are making a positive impact. This includes showcasing the efforts of public servants and common people who achieve great feats. Report on Good Deeds: Media should cover positive stories about good deeds done by individuals, celebrities, and organizations, both in India and around the world. This would help create a more balanced and hopeful narrative. Provide Educational Content: Coverage that educates the public about history, international relations, and fundamental economic theories, helping to build a more informed and engaged citizenry. Avoid Excessive Sensationalism: Media should avoid creating unnecessary hype around trivial stories, instead focusing on stories that have significant relevance and impact on the community.

Conclusion

While Indian media has made strides in certain areas, it is clear that ethical journalism requires a commitment to unbiased reporting, public service, and the pursuit of truth. The media plays a critical role in shaping public opinion and influencing societal norms, and it is essential that it does so with integrity and fairness.

Media organizations in India must strive to balance their financial interests with their ethical responsibilities. Only then can they truly serve the public and contribute positively to the discourse in society.

Opinions may vary, but the need for media to uphold ethical standards is a pressing concern for the future of informed and engaged democratic societies.