New Delhi, Confronted with increasing pressure and threats from the government, many prominent Indian journalists have shifted to YouTube and other social media platforms to continue their pursuit of truth and unbiased journalism. This trend has been notable since the Narendra Modi government assumed power in India.
According to Kashmir Media Service, citing a report by freelance content writer Ziyauallah Khan published in the Nagpur-based Muslim Mirror, indicates that the digital realm has become a refuge for journalists in today’s India, a country currently ranked 161st out of 180 on the World Press Freedom Index.
A key example of this shift is the departure of Ravish Kumar, a significant figure in Indian journalism, from NDTV after 27 years. His resignation on November 30, 2022, came amidst concerns over NDTV’s future independence following a hostile takeover by an oligarch with close ties to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kumar’s move was seen as a stand against what he described as “Godi media,” or media subservient to the government narrative, as he sought to maintain his journalistic integrity.
The challenges faced by NDTV under the Modi administration included allegations of money laundering, a boycott, loss of sponsorships, and mass layoffs, all of which significantly threatened the network’s operational independence and unbiased reporting.
Ravish Kumar’s resignation, which resonated deeply with the public – his announcement video garnered 9.6 million views – symbolizes a broader trend among journalists seeking platforms free from government influence and pressure. Social media, particularly YouTube, has become a key outlet for these journalists to continue delivering news without bias or external control.
However, this shift is not without its challenges. Journalists like Akash Banerjee, who pre-emptively moved to YouTube to avoid government interference, emphasize the need for legal preparedness to counter potential government actions. These journalists face increased vulnerabilities, including financial insecurity, minimal legal support, and threats of physical harm, online harassment, equipment seizures, home raids, and imprisonment.
The takeover of NDTV is emblematic of the current state of journalism in India, where media outlets resisting alignment with the government’s narrative face significant challenges. This situation has necessitated a shift to social media platforms for many journalists, as they strive to uphold the principles of free and unbiased journalism in an increasingly controlled media landscape.