In an era where information is more accessible than ever, the role of mainstream media as a cornerstone of democracy is vital. It serves as the bridge between the government and the public, shaping discourse, ensuring accountability, and highlighting pressing societal concerns. However, a disturbing trend has emerged in India’s media landscape one that prioritizes sensationalism over substance. Rather than focusing on issues that impact millions, many leading media houses, particularly those based in Delhi, appear fixated on celebrity disputes, internet feuds, and trivial controversies that do little to inform or empower the public.
A glaring example of this misplaced focus is the recent imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur—an event of profound political and social consequence that has received minimal coverage. Instead of meaningful discussions on the governance crisis and its implications, major news networks have been flooded with updates on inconsequential entertainment gossip and social media spats. Outlets like ANI have posted hundreds of updates about an India’s Got Lalent controversy, while topics such as stock market fluctuations, judicial verdicts on marital rape, and the escalating unemployment crisis remain underreported or entirely ignored.
The Shift in Public Priorities
This shift in media focus raises a crucial question: Have we, as a society, become so consumed by entertainment and digital drama that we have abandoned discussions on real-world challenges? Shouldn’t the discourse centre around critical concerns such as rampant unemployment, the integrity of competitive examinations, the worsening climate crisis, and the state of our democracy? Instead of dissecting every remark made by a social media influencer, should we not be holding policymakers accountable for the failures that have led to prolonged unrest in Manipur?
The Ongoing Manipur Crisis
On February 13, 2025, the Indian government-imposed President’s Rule in Manipur following months of escalating ethnic violence and administrative breakdown. This drastic measure was taken after the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, who stepped down under intense pressure due to his government’s failure to control the situation.
The conflict, which erupted in May 2023, stems from longstanding tensions between the Meitei majority and the Kuki-Zo tribes. The immediate catalyst was a court ruling proposing to extend economic benefits and job reservations to the Meitei community—a move that was vehemently opposed by the Kuki-Zo population. This sparked widespread violence, resulting in over 250 deaths, the displacement of thousands, and the near-total collapse of governance in the state.
In response to the deepening crisis, the central government dissolved the state’s Council of Ministers and placed Manipur under direct federal administration. The move was intended to restore stability, but it also underscored the fragility of India’s federal structure and the challenges of managing inter-ethnic conflicts in a diverse nation.
The Responsibility of the Media
A free and responsible press is essential to a functioning democracy. When mainstream media prioritizes celebrity gossip and social media controversies over pressing national issues, it does a grave disservice to the public. The duty of journalism is not merely to entertain but to inform, analyse, and question those in power. Unfortunately, today’s media landscape seems more inclined toward profit-driven sensationalism than meaningful reporting.
The consequences of this shift are profound. Public awareness diminishes when key issues are overshadowed by distractions. Governance failures remain unchecked when the media does not investigate or hold leaders accountable. As citizens, our perspectives become skewed when we are fed a steady diet of superficial content rather than in-depth reporting on policy decisions, economic shifts, and social movements.
Reclaiming the Media’s Purpose
The current state of mainstream media necessitates urgent introspection. Should our national discourse be dictated by viral trends and celebrity feuds, or should it revolve around policy failures, economic distress, and governance challenges? The decline in quality journalism not only weakens democratic accountability but also erodes public trust in the press.
News organizations must recalibrate their priorities and return to their fundamental duty—delivering objective, fact-based, and issue-driven journalism. Equally, as consumers of information, we have a role to play. We must demand responsible journalism one that amplifies voices that matter, scrutinizes power structures, and fosters informed civic engagement.
India stands at a crucial crossroads. The trajectory of our nation will be shaped by what we choose to discuss, analyse, and ultimately act upon. The media must rise to the occasion, moving beyond distractions to fulfil its rightful role in democracy. Only then can we ensure that the pressing concerns of the people receive the attention they truly deserve.
The author is Assistant Professor, HLM Group of Institutions, Ghaziabad.
