Rules for Reporting in Conflict
India has no specific rules for conflict reporting beyond basic journalism ethics.
Journalists should verify information from multiple sources and avoid spreading misinformation.
Objectivity means seeking the truth, even if it involves taking a side.
During conflicts, national security concerns limit sharing sensitive info like troop movements.
In practice, objectivity often fades as media aligns with government narratives to boost morale.
Operation Sindoor on Social Media
Misinformation during Operation Sindoor was strategic, not accidental.
Pakistan initially spread visuals of damage to set their narrative early.
Indian media and social media exaggerated claims (e.g., attacks deep inside Pakistan).
Most propaganda targets domestic audiences, not the enemy population.
Pressures on Journalists
Conflicts should be a prime time for honest journalism but often are the worst.
Some TV channels exploit religious stereotypes for ratings during conflicts.
There is little coverage explaining the dangers or costs of nuclear war or conflict escalation.
Government pressure includes legal threats, blocking news, and cutting ad revenue.
Journalists risk consequences for communicating with people across the border.
Media’s Role and Public’s Right to Know
Journalists are expected to suspend questioning during war to support the government’s war effort.
Citizens often don’t want critical questions during conflict, favoring patriotic narratives.
Governments withhold information on losses to avoid political fallout and public accountability.
Lack of transparency prevents the public from fully understanding the conflict’s costs.
Impact of Social Media Account Blocks
Blocking accounts restricts public access to diverse viewpoints and critical voices.
The government controls the narrative by limiting dissent under the guise of nationalism.
Conflict times make it easier to justify suppressing criticism as anti-national.
Despite efforts, some international and independent reports ensure facts still surface globally.
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