Maryam Noureen Janjua
The media landscape in India and Pakistan plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception and national discourse. Given the historical and ongoing tensions between the two countries, media outlets on both sides of the border often reflect and reinforce their respective national narratives. Indian and Pakistani media have been influential in framing bilateral relations, national security concerns, and domestic politics, often mirroring the complex and adversarial nature of the countries’ relationship. Despite the mushroomed growth of media on both sides, journalism has catalyzed the binaries instead of bridging them. Media on both sides have foregone the media ethics for peace and prosperity.
Historically, the media in both countries has often been accused of exacerbating tensions by perpetuating stereotypes, promoting nationalistic fervor, and sometimes disseminating propaganda. Sensationalism and biased reporting have frequently overshadowed balanced journalism, which has contributed to mutual mistrust and hostility among the general populace.
The significance of media ethics has grown internationally since the publication of the MacBride Report in 1980. This report, titled “Many Voices, One World: Towards a New More Just and More Efficient World Information and Communication Order,” underscored the necessity for an ethical framework amidst the growing globalization of media technologies. Since 1983, the ‘International Principles of Professional Ethics in Journalism’ have served as a standard guide for ethical media practices. These principles highlight the importance of truth, responsibility, and freedom of expression in journalism. For example, Jürgen Habermas’ discourse ethics emphasize the necessity of reasoned argumentation in communication and assert that national security must adhere to ‘Universal Human Rights’.
In the post-Pulwama time period, Indian media played a cynical role in warmongering among Indian citizens. At the same time, Indian media has been glorifying human rights violations in several parts of India, especially in Manipur and Kashmir. This is entirely against the globally acknowledged ethics of journalism. Article 20 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights explicitly prohibits any propaganda for war and any advocacy of national, racial, or religious hatred that incites discrimination, hostility, or violence. This establishes that hate speech is a serious offense under international and state laws and media regulations.
However, it is understandable that biases may arise when discussing adversarial states due to nationalistic tendencies. Consider the longstanding tensions between India and Pakistan, which have consistently hindered their progress. Media on both sides of the border naturally tend to defend their own narratives and national security interests. Despite this, it is essential that both national governments and the public uphold internationally accepted norms and ethics.
Indian media analysts and commentators frequently criticize Pakistan in a manner that constitutes hate speech. In 2019 the British media regulator Ofcom fined the Indian media channel Republic £20,000 for hate speech against Pakistanis. In the controversial episode of “Poochta Hai Bharat,” Arnab Goswami and his guests engaged in derogatory and abusive rhetoric about Pakistanis, labeling them as terrorists. This content was deemed highly offensive and harmful to Pakistanis, violating Ofcom’s rules against offensive language and discriminatory treatment.
The media in India and Pakistan holds significant potential to influence public perception and play a pivotal role in normalizing relations between the two nations. Given the longstanding political and territorial disputes, particularly over Kashmir, the media’s role becomes crucial in shaping narratives, fostering dialogue, and promoting peace. This troubling trend calls for increased dialogue and collaboration on issues of mutual interest, fostering professional relationships and promoting fact-based regional news coverage. Cross-border journalism exchanges can help build long-term professional relationships, encourage ethical journalism, and contribute to de-escalating tensions during crises.
The media also possesses the power to change the regional landscape of South Asia. By promoting stories of peace, shared cultural heritage, and people-to-people interactions, the media can highlight the commonalities that exist between the two nations. Media outlets should prioritize balanced coverage, giving voice to peace advocates and experts who can provide nuanced perspectives on bilateral issues. Such initiatives can lead to more accurate and comprehensive reporting, as well as mutual understanding.
Social media also plays a critical role in shaping public opinion. While it can sometimes amplify hostility, it also provides a platform for dialogue and engagement. Influencers, journalists, and ordinary citizens can use social media to promote messages of peace and collaboration. The media in India and Pakistan has a dual role: it can either perpetuate conflict or pave the way for peace. By choosing the latter, media professionals can significantly contribute to the normalization of relations between the two nations, fostering a climate of understanding and cooperation.
Maryam Noureen is an undergraduate student of Political Science at Women University Rawalpindi. She can be reached at [email protected]
