The media, once the fearless voice of truth now feels like a shadow of its former self. It was meant to be the “fourth pillar of democracy,” standing tall to hold the powerful accountable and shine a light on injustice. But today, much of Indian media has abandoned its mission. Instead of speaking truth to power, it has become a tool for propaganda, trading integrity for profit and influence. As the saying goes “When the shepherd falls asleep, the wolves run free.”
Newsrooms that were supposed to question authority now echo their narratives. Anchors once respected as voices of reason, now roar with biased opinions, drowning out dissent. The media no longer serves the people, it serves political masters, peddling half-truths and outright lies to divide the nation.
Look at prime-time debates they’re not debates, they’re battles with anchors as generals shouting orders. The real issues ; poverty, unemployment and education are forgotten, replaced with fiery discussions designed to fuel anger and hatred. It’s like treating a broken bone with a band-aid , loud but useless.
The truth is simple: the media’s loyalty lies not with the public but with the highest bidder. Big corporations and political parties control what we see, hear and believe. Critical stories that could expose corruption or injustice are buried under flashy advertisements and clickbait headlines. As they say, “The one who feeds the cow decides the milk’s price.”
Journalists who dare to speak against this system are silenced,fired, threatened or even jailed. On the other hand, those who play along are rewarded with promotions and prime-time slots. Where is the courage that journalism once stood for?
The biggest betrayal is how media has turned into a circus. Sensationalism is the new mantra louder, bolder and shallower. Gossip about celebrities, manufactured communal tension and baseless rumors dominate headlines. Why? Because it sells.
Serious reporting has taken a backseat. Investigative journalism is dead. Instead, we get soap operas disguised as news. As the saying goes “Empty vessels make the loudest noise,” and today’s newsrooms are deafening.
When media fails, democracy suffers. An uninformed or misinformed population is easy to manipulate. Trust in journalism is eroding and without a credible media, people turn to rumors and propaganda. The result? A divided, confused nation where lies spread faster than truth.
It’s time for Indian media to remember its purpose. Journalism isn’t about TRPs or pleasing powerful sponsors ,it’s about courage, honesty and serving the people. The truth may be uncomfortable, but “a bitter medicine cures the disease.”
If the media continues down this path, it will lose all credibility, dragging the country down with it. The question is will it rise again to fulfill its duty or will it remain a puppet on strings, performing for those who pull the cords? The nation is watching, and as they say, “When the light goes out, even the smallest candle becomes a hero.” It’s time for the media to be that candle.
The Failure of Indian Media: Journalism or a Puppet Show ?
