The Eclipse of Ethical Journalism in India: An Analysis
When I first joined a national English newspaper in the mid-1980s, the journalism profession was respected and scribes were given due recognition wherever they went. Notable figures like Ramnath Goenka, Arun Shourie, and Prabhu Chawla led an era of unprecedented freedom and recognition. We worked with talented and ethical journalists who committed to the professional values of honesty, integrity, and unbiased reporting.
My Mentors: Arun Shourie and Prabhu Chawla
Under the mentorship of Arun Shourie, a legendary figure in Indian media, and Prabhu Chawla, an ethical guide, we experienced a period of unparalleled freedom and recognition. Editors like Shourie and Chawla emphasized the importance of truth, fairness, and justice in journalism. They instilled in us a sense of responsibility towards the society and the truth.
Challenges and Hardships
The hard work we put in was reflected in the respect and recognition we received. However, the pressures of the job were intense. I remember seeing my colleagues, including some editors, fall victim to health issues such as brain hemorrhages and heart attacks due to the constant work pressure. The stress of the profession took a toll on their health. Another significant challenge was the erosion of traditional media due to the rise of electronic media.
Impact of Economic Factors on Journalism
With the advent of electronic media, the monopoly of print media began to decline. Politicians started preferring electronic platforms for press conferences, exacerbating the financial pressures on print media. This led to a shift in the way journalists were treated and perceived. Journalists were often treated like sales managers, whose primary duty was to sell the 'product' of the owners of the media companies, undermining the very essence of journalism.
The Decline of Press Freedom
Values in every field, including journalism, have plummeted. Economic pressures now dictate not just the content but the ethics of journalism. Press freedom, as once defined and upheld by figures like Ramnath Goenka and Arun Shourie, has become a tool for mud-slinging and manipulation. The mantra of 'facts are sacred, but comments are free' has been twisted. In today's media landscape, facts are often misrepresented and comments have become increasingly unparliamentary and unprofessional.
The Role of Social Media and YouTubers
The rise of social media and YouTubers has further blurred the lines between ethical journalism and sensationalism. Many content creators have capitalized on the blurred morality and have used social media to malign others, often spreading false information and fostering a culture of hostility. This has not only affected press freedom but has also undermined the credibility of the media as a whole.
The Root Cause: Money
Money has become the primary driving force behind the decline of ethical journalism in India. Karl Marx's statement that all human relations are economic relations rings true today. The drive for profit often trumps principles, leading to practices that undermine the integrity of journalism. A moderate income is sufficient for a full and fulfilling life. However, greed and ignorance often lead to the adoption of unethical practices. The key to reversing this trend lies in recognizing that anything in excess is poison and rekindling a minimalist approach to life.
The Path Forward
Journalists and media organizations must prioritize ethical standards over profit. By embracing a minimalist lifestyle and a commitment to truth and justice, the decline in ethical journalism can be reversed. Let wisdom prevail, and let us strive for a society where all can live in peace and prosperity.