[Jumge Pale]

The role of the media extends far beyond the pursuit of views, shares, and digital engagement. As a vital institution in a democratic society, it carries the responsibility of informing citizens, fostering peace, encouraging informed debate, and contributing to positive social transformation.

However, when sensationalism takes precedence over substance, media organisations risk becoming catalysts for division rather than instruments of public enlightenment.

Across Arunachal Pradesh, concerns are increasingly being raised about declining journalistic standards and the growing influence of unregulated information platforms. These developments warrant serious reflection on the future of responsible journalism and the measures required to preserve the credibility of the fourth pillar of democracy.

The erosion of journalistic integrity

The contemporary media landscape faces challenges arising from both external pressures and internal shortcomings. The independence of journalism is compromised when media organisations become susceptible to political patronage or financial incentives. The public expects news institutions to serve the truth rather than partisan interests. Any deviation from this principle weakens public trust and undermines democratic accountability.

The challenge of media literacy

A significant segment of the audience struggles to distinguish between professional journalism, opinion-based commentary, and misinformation. In the digital age, information is consumed rapidly and often without verification, making society increasingly vulnerable to manipulation, half-truths, and fabricated narratives. The rise of unregulated information platforms and the proliferation of social media accounts presenting themselves as news agencies have blurred the distinction between journalism and content creation. Many such platforms operate without formal training in media ethics, legal obligations, fact-checking procedures, or editorial accountability. While digital technology has democratised access to information, accessibility should not be mistaken for professionalism.

Blurring the line between reporting and advocacy

There is a growing tendency among some individuals to abandon the role of an independent observer and instead act as advocates for the subjects they cover. When reporting becomes advocacy, objectivity is compromised, and public confidence in journalism inevitably suffers.

Journalism: A profession built on knowledge, law, and ethics

Journalism and reporting have traditionally been regarded as serious and dignified professions that demand not only communication skills but also a deep understanding of law, ethics, governance, and society. The academic curriculum of mass communication and journalism at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels reflects this reality. Students undergo rigorous training through numerous disciplines designed to mould them into responsible communicators and public watchdogs.

The popular saying that journalists are ‘jacks of all trades’ reflects the breadth of knowledge expected from media professionals. A competent journalist must possess a working understanding of constitutional principles, governance, public administration, law, economics, history, and contemporary social issues.

Particular emphasis is placed on understanding the Constitution of India and the fundamental rights, which form the foundation of democratic freedoms, including freedom of speech and expression. Journalism education also covers critical areas such as defamation law, media ethics, copyright law, intellectual property rights, the press and registration framework, the Official Secrets Act, and important judicial precedents that shape media practice.

Unfortunately, in Arunachal, one increasingly encounters self-styled news outlets and individuals operating media platforms without adequate knowledge of these fundamental legal and ethical principles. While digital technology has democratised access to information, the ability to publish content does not automatically confer the responsibilities, standards, and professionalism associated with journalism.

The mushrooming of media outlets in the state is, in many respects, a welcome development. A vibrant media ecosystem strengthens transparency, accountability, and public participation in governance.

Journalism remains one of the most important forms of public service, serving as a bridge between citizens and institutions. However, when media platforms operate without adherence to established media laws, ethical standards, verification procedures, and professional accountability, they risk diminishing the credibility of the profession itself. Unethical practices, sensationalism, misinformation, and ignorance of legal obligations not only mislead the public but also undermine the reputation of dedicated journalists who continue to uphold the highest standards of the profession.

Understanding the role of the media A news agency is fundamentally an informer, not an adjudicator. Its responsibility is to gather, verify, and disseminate factual information, so that citizens can make informed judgements. The media should not replace the functions of courts, investigative agencies, or democratic institutions.

The growing tendency among sections of the public to expect media organisations to pronounce guilt, determine innocence, or deliver verdicts has further complicated the journalistic landscape. Such expectations distort the purpose of journalism and encourage trial by media rather than informed public discourse.

Furthermore, the term ‘fourth pillar of democracy’ reflects the media’s indispensable democratic function, rather than a formal constitutional designation. Consequently, the preservation of journalistic standards depends largely upon professional ethics, institutional accountability, public trust, and effective regulatory oversight.

The way forward

Arunachal has long been recognised for its social harmony, cultural diversity, and peaceful coexistence. Preserving these values requires a media ecosystem that prioritises accuracy, fairness, and responsibility over provocation and sensationalism.

Strengthening professional standards

Media organisations should adopt robust editorial policies, fact-checking mechanisms, and ethical guidelines. The increasing use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies must be accompanied by rigorous human oversight to ensure accuracy, accountability, and transparency.

Enhancing media literacy Educational institutions, civil society organisations, and government agencies should collaborate to improve media literacy among citizens. A well-informed public is better equipped to identify misinformation, evaluate sources critically, and support credible journalism.

Establishing clear regulatory frameworks

The state government, in consultation with media professionals, legal experts, and civil society representatives, should consider developing transparent guidelines that define the rights, responsibilities, and accountability mechanisms applicable to news organisations operating within the state. Such frameworks must balance professional accountability with the constitutional protection of free expression. Encouraging self-regulation, journalistic bodies, press associations, and media organisations should strengthen internal accountability mechanisms and actively promote ethical conduct. Responsible self-regulation often proves more effective and sustainable than excessive external control.

The future of journalism in Arunachal Pradesh depends on a collective commitment to truth, professionalism, and public responsibility. The objective should not merely be to increase the number of media platforms but to ensure that those entrusted with informing the public possess the knowledge, integrity, and competence necessary to serve society responsibly.

A free press remains indispensable to democracy, but freedom must be accompanied by responsibility. As the media landscape continues to evolve, journalists, policymakers, institutions, and citizens alike must work together to safeguard the credibility of the profession.

Only through accountability, ethical conduct, and an unwavering commitment to truth can the fourth pillar continue to serve as a force for progress, transparency, democratic participation, and social harmony in Arunachal.

In Arunachal, we have several organisations and clubs, such as the Arunachal Press Club, the Arunachal Pradesh Electronic and Digital Media Association, and the Arunachal Pradesh Media Welfare Association. It is high time to scrutinise these media outlets to regulate their affiliation with the aforementioned bodies, ensuring they adhere strictly to the Press Council of India’s guidelines while discharging their journalistic responsibilities.

Establishing a streamlined mechanism is crucial to filter out unprofessional media outlets. Organisations must avoid granting affiliation to outlets that do not meet the necessary criteria; affiliation should not be treated as a mere tool to inflate membership numbers for the sake of the organisation’s prestige. At the very least, it should be mandatory for the editor-in-chief of any affiliated media outlet to hold a degree in mass communication and journalism and law graduation.

Furthermore, it is the responsibility of the public to learn how to distinguish between authentic, credible news channels and those that are not. Media outlets should be required to clearly display their affiliations. If a media outlet lacks any formal connection to an established club or organisation, it should naturally raise questions regarding its credibility and authenticity. (The writer is managing director-cum-editor-in-chief of the Arunachal Informer)