How Indian Media is Undermining Democracy: A Post-2014 Analysis

How Indian Media is Undermining Democracy: A Post-2014 Analysis

A free and fair media is the fourth pillar of democracy. It holds the powerful accountable, gives a voice to the voiceless, and ensures informed citizenry. However, in India post-2014, the functioning of mainstream media—especially television and print—has seen a dramatic shift that has raised serious concerns about its role in eroding democratic values. With increasing government influence, corporate control, and sensationalism, many believe that the Indian media is no longer serving the interests of the public, but acting as a mouthpiece for those in power.

1. The Rise of ‘Godi Media’

The term “Godi Media” (lapdog media), popularised by journalist Ravish Kumar, refers to media houses that openly support the ruling government, specifically the BJP under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Since 2014, several prominent channels like Republic TV, Zee News, and Aaj Tak have consistently pushed pro-government narratives while ignoring or downplaying dissent, protests, or policy failures.

Example:

During the farmers' protest (2020–2021), several news channels labelled the protestors as “Khalistanis” or “anti-national,” rather than investigating their demands and the implications of the farm laws.

2. Suppression of Dissenting Voices

Independent journalism has come under constant attack. Reporters who question the government often face intimidation, legal threats, or even arrest.

Example:

Journalist Siddique Kappan was arrested in 2020 while on his way to report on the Hathras rape case. He was held under anti-terror laws and denied bail for over two years.

NDTV, one of the few remaining critical voices, faced tax raids and later was taken over by Adani Group, a business ally of the government.

3. TRP-driven Sensationalism vs Real Journalism

Rather than reporting on real issues like unemployment, healthcare, inflation, or education, media houses have focused on emotionally charged topics that polarize the audience—often promoting Hindu-Muslim binary narratives.

Example:

In 2020, Sushant Singh Rajput’s death case took over prime-time slots for months, while real issues like the COVID-19 mismanagement and migrant crisis were brushed aside.

News debates on prime-time often turn into shouting matches that demonize minorities or opposition leaders.

4. Choking of Press Freedom and Global Decline

India's global ranking in press freedom has steadily declined.

Example:

Reporters Without Borders ranked India 159th out of 180 countries in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index.

The government’s increasing use of sedition and UAPA laws against journalists is cited as a major reason.

5. Government-Corporate-Media Nexus

The privatization of media ownership has created a dangerous nexus between big business and political power. Most large media houses are owned by corporations who benefit from staying in the ruling party’s good books.

Example:

The Reliance Group (Network18), Bennett Coleman (Times Group), and Adani’s takeover of NDTV illustrate how the media space has become a tool for business lobbying, not journalistic independence.

6. Disinformation and Election Propaganda

During elections, media often plays a direct role in shaping voter perceptions with biased reportage or fake news campaigns.

Example:

Fake narratives around ‘Love Jihad,’ anti-national universities, and temple-building are used as distractions during election cycles.

In 2024, AI-generated deepfakes and WhatsApp forwards were widely used to polarize voters, with media doing little to fact-check or counter them.

Conclusion

Democracy thrives when its media is vibrant, fearless, and independent. What we are witnessing in India is the systematic dismantling of this role. While social media and some independent outlets (like The Wire, Scroll, AltNews, Newslaundry) continue to do essential work, they face severe funding issues and legal harassment.

The Indian media has the potential to restore public trust, but only if it returns to its core mission: speaking truth to power, not amplifying it.