Revanth Expresses Concern over Misuse of Social Media by Self-Styled Journalists
Some parties start political party-owned media to cover up their irregularities, protect their wealth and tarnish the image of those questioning them: CM
Hyderabad: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Friday expressed serious concern over the growing misuse of social media in the guise of journalism and the rise of political party-owned media outlets that are damaging the credibility of the media.
He criticised the alarming trend of self-proclaimed social media journalists attending press conferences without any understanding of basic journalistic ethics or experience.
Speaking at the 10th anniversary celebrations of a newspaper here on Friday, Revanth Reddy said, "Today, somebody who does not know an alphabet says I am a journalist. They attend our press conferences and occupy front row seats. If we ask them, they say I am a social media journalist."
"These young social media journalists don’t even know how to respect senior and genuine journalists. They don't even have the basic sense to offer seats when senior journalists enter the hall. They disrespectfully sit in the front rows, sometimes cross-legged during the press conference and give me a look — as if I should greet them and bow my head. Sometimes, I feel like stepping down and slapping them. But circumstances and my position come in between and stop me," the Chief Minister said.
The Chief Minister pointed out that political parties were increasingly launching their own media houses — not to spread ideology like in the past — but to protect their interests, hide irregularities and attack those who question them. “These days, such outlets are more focused on managing political narratives and generating revenue through questionable means than upholding journalistic values,” Revanth Reddy remarked.
He stressed that the media landscape has become so distorted that even sincere journalists are being forced to organise seminars just to define what journalism truly means. He referred to recent incidents post Operation Sindoor, where some social media influencers were arrested for assisting hostile nations like Pakistan, as a stark reminder of the misuse of digital platforms.
He lauded the role played by Communist parties and their media in the past, particularly during the Telangana armed struggle and other people’s movements. "Communists may not always win elections, but like salt in food, their role in society is essential. They’ve historically played a pivotal role in questioning authority and creating awareness," he said.
Revanth Reddy said Communists played a key role in bringing the Congress to power and wished that the Congress and the Left Parties should continue to work together for the welfare of people and the state.
"Communists may not be able to win elections and come to power, but they have the ability to play a role in dislodging a party from power, which adopts anti-people policies," Revanth Reddy said.
He warned that media organisations aligned with political entities are undermining journalism’s noble objectives, risking the future of the profession and even national security.
Revanth Reddy also recalled how political leaders in earlier times used to gain insights from journalists at press meets. “Now, the reverse is happening. Journalists come with agendas, and it’s political leaders who must guard against misinformation,” he said.
The Chief Minister appealed to citizens to be vigilant about media narratives pushed under political influence. He stressed the need to draw a ‘Lakshman Rekha’ between fake and genuine journalists to preserve the dignity and trustworthiness of journalism.
