On 14th February 2019, when the world was busy celebrating and spreading love, India was at the receiving end of a ghastly terror attack in Pulwama. More than 40 CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) personnel were martyred, when a suicide bomber from Jaish e Mohammed (allegedly a Pakistan based terror outfit) rammed his explosive-laden SUV into the force’s bus.
As the news broke out, the entire nation mourned and also became aggressively critical of Pakistan. Every News channel was trying hard to deliver the worst news of the year in the best way possible, to lure viewers into watching their so-called ‘éxclusive’ coverage. They were just trying to cash in on the ‘soul-shattering’ tragedy, by keeping their audience engaged. Amidst the wave of grief that engulfed our country, for once, I did expect the media to show its sensitive side; but I was left utterly disappointed. I was really hoping that the media for now, at least, would show some sensible stories, bereft of political biases, while prioritizing the Nation. As I switched on my television, I found myself listening to the same cacophony of news anchors and panelists.
The entire country was grieving the loss, and it was perhaps not the appropriate time to indulge in a Congress-BJP debate. For Indian media, it was just another ‘breaking news’, that they were trying to present as usual. I will need to write a lot of other articles to describe, what the discussion should have been about instead of what it was. In short, all I want to say is that in a moment like this, people don’t really want to hear loud debates and political allegations/attacks, at least for a while. Times like these are critically sensitive, and the media should refrain from directing the focus of masses on provoking and glorifying war.
Featured Image Source: ANI