Fearless journalism is still alive

By M L Satyan

Bengaluru, Aug 18, 2023: Media is one of the four pillars of democracy in India. It is sad to note that media and the journalists are under threat today. A journalist who tries to be truthful to his mission is branded as an “anti-national” by the federal government. Criticisms and critics of the government are always sidelined or punished.

I have been functioning as a freelance journalist since 2011. I have come across some fearless journalists/media persons in India. Those who have inspired me are Ravish Kumar, Ajit Anjum, Abhisar Sharma, Ashok Wankhede, Sakshi Joshi, Barkha Dutt, Dharmendra and Munmohan Mishra.

I recall a short story. A certain jewellery store sold man-made stones as though they were priceless, natural gems. This was happening for years and scores of men and women bought what they thought were precious stones. No one questioned the authenticity until someone with trained eyes pointed out they were manmade.

How were people deceived? The counterfeit looked remarkably like the real. The difference was not noticeable unless you had a trained eye.

First, we need to establish the criteria for the authentic: look at a real stone under a magnifying glass. Then, will we be trained concerning what to look for in the counterfeit. In a society a person, who knows the difference between right and wrong and questions the wrong-doer in a constructive manner, can be considered a fearless journalist. Is it easy for them?

There is a saying, “If you want to be a sincere person, you will have thousand enemies.” It means that when we are truthful in words and actions, other insincere people will consider us as their enemies. In other words, a sincere person is considered as a ‘challenge’ by an insincere person as ‘light’ challenges ‘darkness.’ A fearless journalist is called to function as light (meaning authentic news) in order to dispel darkness (meaning ignorance).

A true journalist must have the following qualities:

1. Listening: Active listening when others are speaking or communicating shows that the journalist respects the speaker and allows him to learn more about the speaker or the subject of the conversation.
2. Concise: A journalist needs to have direct, clear, and concise communication that can ensure that he is able to properly convey the news/message.
3. Empathy: It helps the journalist to build trust and relationships. Being empathetic is very useful in conflict resolution as it allows the journalist to imagine what others are feeling and understand their actions.
4. Confidence: Being confident in his communication a journalist can grow his credibility as a professional. It also can help him properly communicate the information/news.
5. Friendly: A journalist’s speaking and writing in a friendly tone can encourage others to communicate with him more often. A journalist can use the person’s name if he knows it, and be positive and friendly when interacting with others in person or on the phone.
6. Observation: Observing non-verbal communication, such as body language, is a very important aspect of communication. Recognizing the focus groups’ body language can give the journalist some insight into how they are feeling.
7. Polite: Being polite in his written, verbal, and non-verbal communication can ensure that the intentions of the journalist are clear. A journalist greets others when starting conversations, actively listens and uses good manners when interacting with others. This can also establish an excellent reputation and invites others to treat him politely as well.
8. Systematic: A journalist organizes his communication, both oral and written, and other forms of communication so that others understand his intended purpose of the interaction. He communicates in a clear and systematic manner by staying on topic and creating a purposeful structure for his conversations and messages.
9. Sincere: A good journalist is a great communicator who is dedicated and honest. Being genuine can build a sense of trust and respect. Speaking with sincerity involves sharing his feelings and opinions, which can encourage clear and meaningful interactions with others.
10. Judgment: A journalist judges the appropriate method and time to communicate with others. This can ensure peaceful and effective interactions. A journalist considers the conversation he wants to have and the right medium for his message.
11. Consistent: Consistent journalist interacts with others on a regular basis. Establishing a predictable and reliable channel of communication can help the journalist to keep others well informed and maintain work relationships.
12. Retentive: Being retentive means that one can remember details of previous conversations and interactions with others very well. This is a useful skill for the journalist to ensure his communication is efficient and personal. This can help the journalist to bond with other professionals, build strong workplace friendships.
13. Inquisitive: Asking detailed and thoughtful questions can lead the journalist to learn new things and help clarify instructions. Skilled communicators often ask questions to strengthen their understanding of expectations, intentions, and feelings. Asking questions in a public communication platform is especially effective because it can ensure that he receives an answer quickly and this allows others to learn as well.
14. Proactive: As a skilled communicator a journalist can address conflicts in a timely manner and start a conversation when needed. Being a proactive communicator helps him prevent misunderstandings and establish a responsible reputation.
15. Reflective: Self-reflection is an important aspect of communication. It allows the journalist to think thoroughly before speaking, which ensures that he is clearly and intentionally communicating.

Today, the media has to play a huge role in acting as a watchdog. It must judge and record the misbehaviour of politicians and government officials. Thus, the media’s role encompasses accountability. The media along with the judiciary needs to act against the non-competitiveness and fallacies of the government.

Let me conclude with the sayings of communication expert Michelle Gladieux – “Courage is needed when we raise our voice to defend our own or another’s reputation, rights, or interests. Expressing our views can be scary. Decide what you stand for and communicate in pursuit of those goals.”

It is to be acknowledged that the fourth pillar of democracy – Media – is still standing mainly due to the active role played by fearless journalists. Let us extend our whole-hearted support to them.