Media's Role in Fanning Communal Flames: A Call for Oversight

Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi raised concerns about the role of media in fostering communal divisions, urging the formation of an all-party committee to monitor such narratives. He emphasized the need for discussions on youth unemployment over sensationalist ‘Jihad’ stories and called for strengthening regulatory bodies like the Press Council.

In a session of the Rajya Sabha on Friday, Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi voiced grave concerns regarding the media's alleged role in fueling communal discord in India. He passionately argued for the establishment of an all-party committee to scrutinize the spreading of divisive narratives, which he dubbed 'poisonous.'

Pratapgarhi highlighted that crucial issues like youth unemployment are often sidelined in favor of sensationalist programming. Citing examples like 'Love Jihad' and 'Land Jihad' debates dominating prime time, he criticized media outlets for prioritizing content perceived to incite public hatred.

Echoing sentiments shared by leader Rahul Gandhi, Pratapgarhi claimed that the government has enabled this divisive atmosphere by empowering media outlets. He urged the fortification of existing regulatory bodies, such as the Press Council and NBDSA, to address and mitigate the toxic impact of both traditional and social media narratives.