The state of Journalism: A Critical Look at Media Coverage in India

In a world dominated by social media and the rapid spread of news, the role of journalism has never been more critical. The recent commentary by Veena Jain on Twitter highlights a growing concern regarding media bias and the responsibility of journalists to report on significant events. Within the span of just a few days, a stark contrast in news coverage has emerged, raising questions about the integrity of media outlets and their priorities.

The Discrepancy in Media Coverage

On June 7, 2025, Arnab Goswami, a prominent figure in Indian journalism, was heavily criticized for his focus on an incident involving Virat Kohli and a tragic stampede at an RCB event in Bengaluru. Just two days later, on June 9, a devastating incident occurred in Mumbai, where five individuals lost their lives after falling from an overcrowded local train. However, as highlighted by Jain, there was a noticeable lack of reporting on this tragic event by Goswami’s channel.

This stark difference in coverage raises important questions about the motivations behind media narratives and which stories are deemed worthy of public attention. The selective reporting of news events can lead to a skewed perception of reality among audiences, potentially downplaying serious issues while sensationalizing others for viewership ratings.

The Impact of Sensationalism in Journalism

The incident involving the RCB stampede, while tragic, was framed in a context that attracted significant media attention due to the celebrity status of Virat Kohli. This highlights a growing trend in journalism where sensationalism often takes precedence over critical reporting on everyday tragedies that affect the general populace. The failure to report on the Mumbai train incident, which resulted in multiple fatalities, exemplifies this troubling trend.

Sensationalist journalism can divert attention from pressing societal issues, such as safety in public transport, overcrowding in urban areas, and the need for better infrastructure. By focusing on celebrity-driven narratives, media outlets risk alienating their audience from more pressing topics that require immediate attention and action.

The Role of Social Media in Journalism

Social media platforms have become a significant force in shaping public discourse and influencing journalism. Tweets, Facebook posts, and Instagram stories can quickly disseminate information to millions. However, as seen in Jain’s tweet, social media is also a powerful tool for holding journalists and media outlets accountable for their reporting practices.

Jain’s commentary not only sheds light on the disparity in coverage but also underscores the importance of audience engagement in journalism. Social media users play a vital role in amplifying voices that demand better accountability from news organizations. This can lead to increased pressure on media outlets to prioritize responsible reporting over sensationalism.

The Importance of Responsible Journalism

Responsible journalism is essential for a well-informed society. It is crucial for media outlets to prioritize comprehensive and balanced coverage of news events, particularly those affecting public safety and welfare. The recent incidents in Bengaluru and Mumbai serve as reminders of the responsibilities that come with the power of the press.

Media organizations must strive for accuracy, fairness, and depth in their reporting. This includes providing coverage of tragic events that might not attract celebrity attention but are nonetheless significant in their implications for public safety and community well-being.

Moving Towards Ethical Reporting

To improve the state of journalism, several steps can be taken:

1. Re-evaluating News Priorities: Media outlets should assess their criteria for newsworthiness and ensure that they cover a diverse range of topics that reflect the realities of society.
2. Encouraging Investigative Journalism: Investing in investigative reporting can uncover underlying issues that lead to tragic incidents, prompting discussions on necessary reforms.
3. Promoting Transparency: Media organizations should be transparent about their editorial choices and the motivations behind their coverage. This can foster trust with their audience.
4. Engaging with the Audience: Incorporating audience feedback into reporting practices can help media outlets better understand the issues that matter to their viewers.
5. Training Journalists: Providing training on ethical journalism guidelines can help reporters navigate the complexities of modern media landscapes and reinforce their commitment to responsible reporting.
   

   Conclusion
   

   The contrasting media coverage of the tragic events in Bengaluru and Mumbai highlights a critical conversation about the state of journalism today. As audiences increasingly turn to social media for news and information, the role of journalists in providing accurate and responsible reporting becomes even more vital. By prioritizing ethical journalism and holding media outlets accountable, society can ensure that important issues are not overshadowed by sensational narratives. Ultimately, a well-informed public is the cornerstone of a functioning democracy, and it is the responsibility of journalists to uphold that standard.

Just two days back Arnab Goswami was targeting Virat Kohli for Bengaluru RCB stampede de@ths

Today 5 people d!ed in Mumbai falling from overcrowded local train, But Arnab’s channel is not even reporting that news!

What kind of Journalism is this?

pic.twitter.com/nydyIMF3IL

— 𝗩eena Jain (@DrJain21) June 9, 2025

Just two days back Arnab Goswami was targeting Virat Kohli for Bengaluru RCB stampede de@ths

It’s hard to ignore the media frenzy surrounding prominent figures in Indian sports and entertainment. Just two days back, Arnab Goswami, a well-known television journalist, was in the spotlight for targeting cricket superstar Virat Kohli over the tragic stampede deaths that occurred during an RCB event in Bengaluru. This incident raised serious questions about crowd management and safety protocols at public gatherings. Social media was ablaze with discussions, and many felt that Goswami’s coverage was more sensationalist than informative. The focus on Kohli seemed to overshadow the gravity of the actual incident, leading to a public outcry about responsible journalism.

Today 5 people d!ed in Mumbai falling from overcrowded local train

Fast-forward to today, and we have another heartbreaking story emerging from Mumbai. Reports indicate that five people tragically died after falling from an overcrowded local train. This incident highlights the severe challenges faced by commuters in one of the world’s most densely populated cities. The chaos and overcrowding on Mumbai’s local trains are not new, but this incident brings to light the urgent need for better safety measures and public transportation management. While the tragic loss of life is always difficult to process, it’s particularly distressing when it seems that such incidents receive less attention than they deserve.

But Arnab’s channel is not even reporting that news!

What’s even more alarming is the media’s response—or lack thereof. Arnab’s channel has not reported on this catastrophic event, leading many to question the priorities of contemporary journalism. It raises an important discussion about what news gets highlighted and what gets buried. In an era where news is readily available at our fingertips, the question arises: why are some tragedies amplified while others are ignored? This discrepancy is particularly troubling when you consider that lives are at stake. Are we desensitized to certain news stories while others captivate our attention simply because of the personalities involved?

What kind of Journalism is this?

This brings us to the crux of the matter: What kind of journalism are we witnessing today? The public’s trust in media has, unfortunately, been compromised by sensationalism and selective reporting. The question posed by Veena Jain on Twitter encapsulates a growing frustration among viewers and readers alike. Are journalists acting as watchdogs, or have they become mere entertainers? When tragedies occur, the public deserves an accurate and fair representation of events, not just a narrative that garners views and ratings.

The Role of Social Media in Modern Journalism

Social media platforms like Twitter have become essential for discussing current events, and they often serve as the public’s pulse on what matters. When people like Dr. Jain raise their voices, they highlight the disparities in media coverage. Social media’s reach allows these sentiments to resonate globally, amplifying calls for accountability. It’s fascinating how, in many cases, the audience now feels empowered to demand better reporting standards. The dialogue around this issue is not just about one journalist or one incident; it’s about the future of journalism itself.

Understanding the Impact of Media Coverage

The impact of media coverage goes beyond mere information dissemination; it shapes public perception and influences policy decisions. When major incidents like the Mumbai train tragedy don’t receive adequate attention, it can lead to a lack of accountability from authorities responsible for public safety. Moreover, these narratives can affect the way communities perceive risk and prioritize safety measures. The responsibility of the media is to ensure that the audience is informed and that their voices are heard, especially in times of tragedy.

Historical Context: Media’s Role in Society

Historically, journalism has played a pivotal role in shaping societal norms and values. From the Watergate scandal to the coverage of wars, the media has often been seen as the fourth estate—holding power to account and giving a voice to the voiceless. However, the rise of sensationalism has led to a dangerous trend where the quality of reporting is sacrificed for clicks and views. The disconnect between what is reported and what the public genuinely cares about can erode trust and lead to widespread cynicism.

The Need for Responsible Journalism

In a world filled with noise and distractions, the call for responsible journalism has never been more urgent. Media outlets need to prioritize stories that impact people’s lives rather than sensationalize events for entertainment. This responsibility extends beyond individual journalists to the institutions that employ them. It is imperative to foster an environment that encourages ethical reporting and prioritizes the truth over sensational narratives.

Encouraging Public Engagement and Awareness

The public must also play an active role in demanding better journalism. Engaging in discussions, sharing credible sources, and calling out irresponsible reporting can create a culture of accountability. Platforms like Twitter can be powerful tools for raising awareness and mobilizing collective action. When people come together to challenge the status quo, it sends a clear message to media outlets that their audience is watching and holding them accountable.

Conclusion: A Call for Change in Journalism

As we reflect on recent events, it’s essential to remember that journalism carries immense responsibility. The stories we tell shape our understanding of the world and influence how we respond to tragedies. The glaring contrast between the coverage of Virat Kohli and the Mumbai train incident serves as a wake-up call for both journalists and audiences alike. We must demand better, not just for ourselves but for future generations. The call for ethical, responsible journalism is not merely a wish; it is a necessity for a well-informed society.

In the end, it’s not just about one journalist or one news channel; it’s about the collective responsibility we share to seek out the truth and demand accountability in the stories that shape our lives. The narrative we choose to amplify can lead to meaningful change, and that’s a powerful tool we should never underestimate.