How to counter Indian media propaganda
Our encounter with Indian misinformation should not just be about proving them wrong - it should be about upholding our values of journalism. Our media must prioritise ethics over expediency, even when pressured to respond quickly to false claims
Many Indian media outlets look unsettled as they run a dehumanising campaign against Bangladesh. They have gone beyond journalistic ethics. No matter what the ground reality is in Bangladesh about the state of the Hindu population, the media is trying their best to paint an exaggerated or one-sided picture.
What do we do about it? Do we encounter this propaganda campaign with our version of propaganda? No. We must not be unnerved by their reports. I have seen some interviews with Bangladeshis by Indian anchors, and we mostly tried to defend our cause. I watched our government representatives, especially the chief press secretary, become quite calmly defensive. I liked his strategy, but he did not have time to prepare to face the questions from the Indian anchors.
It is time for our media to address this challenge—not by adopting propaganda tactics but by adhering to the principles of truthful and responsible journalism.
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The first step could be to ensure accuracy in our reporting regarding the state of our Hindu, Christian, and Buddhist population. Our media must investigate and verify every claim of the Indian press and publish the truth. Let us not sensationalise anything that may ultimately harm our credibility.
It is important to gather facts from diverse sources, including the affected communities, law enforcers, and local witnesses, when reporting incidents involving communal tensions. Transparency in the information-gathering process is equally important.
Accurate data is a powerful tool. If an Indian media outlet falsely reports an incident, our journalists should respond with concrete evidence to clarify the situation. For example, sharing verified statistics, videos, or statements from community leaders can effectively debunk rumours.
Retaliating against propaganda with counter-propaganda can be tempting. However, this approach risks undermining the credibility of our media. Instead, our journalists should focus on nuanced storytelling that addresses the complexities of communal issues.
Rather than fuelling division, Bangladeshi media should emphasise our history of communal harmony and highlight instances where communities come together to resist violence.
Another effective strategy could be to amplify the voices of the people directly involved. We have seen the narratives regarding communal unrest are shaped by people who do not suffer, while the actual victims and witnesses are overlooked.
By giving a platform to those affected, our journalists can present a more authentic account of events. Let us interview the leaders from the minority communities who can provide firsthand insights into the situation. Let us not hide anything.
Many incidents of unrest, whether communal or otherwise, are rooted in local disputes rather than broader societal conflicts. However, external media sometimes misrepresents these incidents as widespread communal tension. We must provide context to their reporting, ensuring their audience understands the local circumstances and historical factors behind an incident.
A land dispute between two families may be inaccurately portrayed as a targeted attack on a particular religious community. Explaining the true nature of such conflicts can help prevent the spread of misinformation and promote a more balanced understanding.
Our encounter with Indian misinformation should not just be about proving them wrong — it should be about upholding our values of journalism. Our media must prioritise ethics over expediency, even when pressured to respond quickly to false claims.
Let us avoid sensationalism, respect the privacy and dignity of those involved, and always strive for fairness. Let us establish a legacy of truth-telling.
Indian media's campaigns are a challenge, but they also present an opportunity for our journalism to shine. By committing to truth, accuracy, and ethical reporting, our media can counter propaganda without resorting to it.
Truth has a way of prevailing.
Ekram Kabir, a former journalist, is a storyteller. ekabir@gmail.com.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.
