In recent times, the focus of Godi media on international issues, particularly those concerning neighboring Bangladesh, has raised questions about their priorities and the apparent neglect of pressing domestic issues. The crisis in Manipur, where thousands of people have been killed and countless others affected, has not received the same level of attention or coverage. This discrepancy highlights a significant double standard in the media’s approach to reporting. Here’s an exploration of why this might be happening and the implications of such bias.
The Manipur Crisis: A Grave Domestic Issue
Manipur, a northeastern state in India, has been grappling with severe ethnic violence and unrest. The conflict has led to a tragic loss of life, displacement of communities, and widespread destruction. Despite the gravity of the situation, media coverage has been sporadic and insufficient, failing to bring the crisis to the forefront of national discourse.
Overemphasis on Bangladesh: A Strategic Distraction?
- Political Interests: One of the reasons for the media’s excessive focus on Bangladesh could be the political narrative that certain groups wish to push. Highlighting issues in Bangladesh, such as political unrest or communal violence, serves to create a sense of external threat, which can be used to rally domestic support and divert attention from internal problems.
- Sensationalism and TRPs: News about neighboring countries often comes with a sense of sensationalism that can attract viewers and increase TRPs (Television Rating Points). Stories involving cross-border dynamics, international diplomacy, or potential threats tend to captivate audiences more, providing a more lucrative option for media houses.
- Government Influence: There is a growing concern about the influence of the government over media narratives. By focusing on external issues, media can align with governmental priorities, showcasing the government’s stance on international affairs while downplaying domestic shortcomings.
The Neglect of Manipur: A Critical Oversight
- Marginalization of Northeast India: Historically, the northeastern states of India have been marginalized in national media coverage. The geographical and cultural distance contributes to a lack of sustained media focus, leading to underreporting of critical issues in these regions.
- Complexity of the Issue: The ethnic conflict in Manipur is complex, involving various tribal and ethnic groups with deep-seated historical grievances. The intricacy of the situation may deter media from providing in-depth coverage, as it requires a nuanced understanding and sensitive reporting.
- Resource Allocation: Covering conflict zones requires significant resources, including personnel, security, and financial investment. Media houses might find it easier and less risky to cover stories from safer and more accessible locations.
The Double Standard: Implications and Consequences
- Erosion of Trust: The evident double standard in media coverage can lead to an erosion of trust among the public. When critical domestic issues are overshadowed by international stories, it creates a sense of alienation and neglect among affected communities.
- Informed Public Discourse: For a healthy democracy, it is essential that citizens are well-informed about the issues affecting their own country. The lack of comprehensive coverage on the Manipur crisis means that the public remains unaware of the true extent of the problem, hindering informed discourse and potential solutions.
- Accountability: Media serves as a watchdog, holding authorities accountable for their actions. By not giving adequate attention to the crisis in Manipur, media fails in its role to scrutinize the government’s response and ensure that adequate measures are being taken to address the situation.
Conclusion
The disparity in media coverage between the crisis in Manipur and issues in Bangladesh reflects deeper biases and strategic interests. It underscores the need for a more balanced and responsible approach to journalism, where the focus remains on reporting critical issues affecting the nation without undue external influence. Addressing these biases is crucial for the media to fulfill its role as the fourth pillar of democracy, ensuring that all voices are heard and all issues are given the attention they deserve.