Letter to the editor
Journalism is a noble profession. However, the moment a media house and or a journalist take a particular stand, they deviate undoubtedly, from their sacred duty. Taking a stand means siding with a particular ideology, thought process, or opinion.
The role of the media is to report the truth, and present all events, good or bad, before the readers/viewers in an impartial and dignified manner. The stands that journalists take are often influenced by their personal biases or the media houses they are associated with, due to certain compulsions. If a journalist distorts facts or news to support a particular stand, it is a blatant disrespect to healthy and ideal journalism. Broadly speaking, taking a stand implies indulging in partisan politics or aligning with a particular ideology. Trainee journalists should be taught the principles of ‘unbiased’ journalism. It is a different matter if they later seek refuge in ‘commitment’ over time.
Sincerely,
[Dr. Shiben Krishen Raina]
Currently in Bengaluru