TDP has requested the Press Council and other media bodies to initiate a debate on the need to regulate media houses promoted and controlled by political parties. The letter was written to express TDP’s grievances against Sakshi paper and news channel.
Interestingly, the two major parties Congress and TDP in our state do not have dedicated channels to promote their interests. There is, however, a section which believes that Eenadu and Andhra Jyothy – papers and channels – are favourable to TDP in their reporting.
The Congress was to have Sakshi paper and channel as their voice when YSR was alive. However, the subsequent developments made the channel the official communication vehicle of Jagan and his party. The only other party, which officially owns a TV channel – T News – is TRS.
The trend of parties themselves owning media houses has now become the norm across the country. Especially, regional parties seem to be active in this aspect. In the neighbouring states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, DMK, AIDMK and Gali brothers as well as Kumara Swamy of JD (U) own channels.
TDP in its letter also requested for an inquiry into the journalistic practices of Sakshi media houses. The letter was also addressed to the Editors Guild and National Broadcasting Association, besides the Press Council of India. Of these, only the Press Council is a government body.
Interestingly, TDP also sent a copy to NDTV Worldwide. “It is quite sad that NDTV Worldwide is reportedly providing expertise to the content of such programs devoid of any journalistic ethics and traditions,” the letter said.
NDTV Worldwide was engaged by Sakshi channel as a consultant. NDTV is being paid a whopping Rs 10 crore as consultation fee for a period of two years, according to sources.
Click here for TDP letter to Press Council against Sakshi
