On the 52nd foundation day of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi, renowned journalist and TV anchor Rajat Sharma defended Indian media against the charges of sensationalism, commercialisation and chasing TRPs.
While addressing the students at the IIMC auditorium, Sharma on Wednesday encouraged them to go ahead as “responsible” media persons and shun the criticism of the industry away. Asserting that the media has ensured justice in cases like Nirbhaya, Jessica lal and Nitish Katara murder cases, he said the electronic media has matured over the years with self regulation and the advent of institutions such as News Broadcasting Standards Authority (NBSA).
Responding to questions from the students, he said the media ought to give more prominence to news from rural and far flung areas and that sting operation should be done in rarest of the rare cases.
“Media is always accused of sensationalising, commercialising and criticised for media trials but those who accuse are the ones who use media for publicising too. A film star makes rounds of studios to promote a movie but when something is talked about his life, he accuses media of stamping on their personal life...but what hurts me more is when people within media accuse each other and question publications and broadcasters. Today, I appeal to media professionals that the profession which made us big and gave us the opportunity to question things and respect that. I request them to sort matters before pointing fingers publicly,” Sharma said and told the students that they must have clarity about the profession that they have chosen.
“There are some anchors, you don’t like for different reasons. Some shouts, some scream on guests but there are also thousands of faceless activists, columnists and sub-editors who I assert are very responsible. The concerns for society and the bridges between society and the Government is media and there is responsibility. You will come in the media, be ready for criticism, questions but don’t let it scare or misguide you,” he added.
In his address Secretary (I&B) Ajay Mittal said the profession demanded courage, sacrifice, hard work and responsibility. He called upon the students not to just for success but to have meaningful life. DG IIMC, K Suresh highlighted the achievements of the institution over the last five decades and outlined his future plans including introduction of regional language courses and providing expertise in content and technology to Community Radio Stations.
Cultural programmes, tree plantation drive, games and a walk by staff, students and faculty were the other highlights of the daylong event.