Shun Sensationalism

CERTAINLY, the growth of media, particularly newspapers, since the advent of democracy has been very noticeable. The media liberalisation and investment-friendly milieu have led to a number of newspapers, and in recent times, FM radio, to appear on the scene. There is no doubt about the quantitsative growth. What is doubtful is whether all this quantitative rise in newspapering has been matched by quality. True, technical gadgetry has changed the looks of an average newspaper. Attractively packaged newspapers of all kinds grace newspaper kiosks these days. But somehow what is inside the offered package is not always in tune with the tenets of journalism. Sensationalism, for instance, guides many newspapers in their bid to sell more copies. With some newspapers, responsible journalism is not something to be practised at all. It would not be an exaggeration to say that even major newspapers have been found wanting in this respect. When even the bigger newspapers throw responsible journalism out of the window it is a matter of concern. It was this concern that Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala was voicing on Tuesday when he criticised the growing trend of sensationalising news without thinking of the pros and cons of its effects by some dailies. He also made a dark prediction. Certain media houses that are more after sensationalising events than disseminating facts will continue to rule the roost in media sector, while ideal journalists will be sidelined.

If this is what is in store in the future from what is supposed to be the watchdog of the society, this is worrisome, it is not as if journalists have not thought of regulating themselves. Indeed, a code of conduct has been framed by journalists under the auspices of Federation of Nepalese Journalists. All, journalists have pledged to abide by the code. It is a question of keeping that pledge close to their heart and shunning irresponsible journalism. If they instead shun practising a journalism that adheres to the lofty goals of freedom of the press and freedom of expression while keeping a sense of responsibility and accountability uppermost in their mind, they are bound to face increasing criticisms like the one expressed by the prime minister. That in turn would damage their credibility and sales could suffer. It is to their own economic advantage that newspapers, thus, should be practising responsible journalism.

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