IT IS NOT JUST THE ESTABLISHMENT BUT SOCIETY TOO RESPONSBILE FOR ATTACKS ON JOURNALISM:DEVANAND SINGH

IT IS NOT JUST THE ESTABLISHMENT BUT SOCIETY TOO RESPONSBILE FOR ATTACKS ON JOURNALISM:DEVANAND SINGH

12-OCT-ENG 13

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA------------------------Protests will once again take place at Jantar Mantar. Slogans will be raised, speeches delivered, concerns regarding press freedom voiced, and voices raised against attacks on the media. While all this is necessary, a question remains: when a journalist is attacked, threatened by the mafia and goons, or faces attempts to strip them of their livelihood, who stands by them?

When a significant section of TV media engaged in sycophancy towards the establishment, it was labeled 'Godi Media' (lapdog media). Journalism that echoes the establishment's voice instead of questioning it certainly deserves criticism; the duty of journalism is not to praise power but to demand accountability from it. However, the question arises: in our opposition to 'Godi Media,' did we also dismiss those journalists who were fighting the battle for independent journalism with limited resources? Is branding an entire profession with a derogatory epithet the right way to protect press freedom?

The truth is that journalism is not defined solely by large studios, glossy screens, and major institutions. There exists a vast world of small newspapers, local publications, and independent journalists who raise issues of public interest without substantial financial backing. Often, it is these journalists who face the greatest risks from local mafia, strongmen, and criminal elements. They lack the legal teams of major institutions or the robust management support that stands by one during a crisis. They face attacks, threats, and lawsuits, yet their suffering rarely makes the headlines.

The irony is that the very society for whose sake the journalist takes risks often turns its back on their struggle. Even neighbors do not feel the need to inquire about the plight of a journalist and their family who are facing threats. An attack on a journalist is not merely an attack on an individual; it is an assault on society's right to information and the truth. Yet, expressions of solidarity often remain confined to a few lines on social media.

There is another facet to this issue, linked to the economic relationship between readers and newspapers. Every reader desires free news, affordable newspapers, and the continuity of journalism. From newspaper hawkers to publishers of small newspapers, everyone has to struggle to secure payments. While the reader's financial constraints are understandable, one must also acknowledge the real costs involved in news gathering, paying journalists' salaries, and managing printing and distribution. If society desires independent journalism, it must also consider strengthening its economic foundation. The contradiction between the expectation of free news and the demand for independent journalism cannot be ignored.

The journalistic fraternity, too, cannot avoid introspection. Some so-called prominent journalists have leveraged their influence for personal prestige and perks rather than for the collective interests of the profession. Boycotting press conferences was sometimes framed as a matter of principle, while accepting expensive gifts at the doorsteps of politicians became a status symbol. A mindset that viewed proximity to power as an achievement has undermined the credibility of journalism. However, it would be equally unfair to paint all journalists with the same brush.

Today, the need is not to single out any specific media group for scrutiny, but to identify the weaknesses within the entire journalistic ecosystem. Accountability of those in power must be established, the role of media organizations reviewed, the safety of journalists ensured, and editorial independence safeguarded against advertising and economic pressures. Furthermore, journalists' organizations should step forward to address the crises faced by small newspapers and independent journalists with the same alacrity shown in cases involving prominent figures.

Let voices be raised at Jantar Mantar—by all means, let them be raised. But let those voices not remain confined merely to slogans. Demands have also been raised for impartial investigations, legal aid, and the safety of the journalist's family following attacks on journalists. Readers should value the newspaper and respect the labor involved in journalism. Journalists must uphold the dignity of their profession and not let proximity to power become the yardstick for success.

For the question is not merely about identifying which outlets constitute 'Godi Media' (partisan media). The crucial question is: when a journalist who speaks the truth finds themselves isolated, who will stand by them?

To save journalism, one must save the journalist. And the responsibility of protecting the journalist lies not solely with the government, but also with society, readers, media organizations, and the journalistic fraternity itself.

Independent journalism cannot survive on slogans alone; it requires the support of impartiality, financial dignity, and solidarity during times of crisis.