Apathy can be a comfortable state, but it’s a dangerous one for society, especially in the realm of journalism. Just as quality journalism can awaken a society, poor journalism lulls it back to sleep.
The problem? A slumbering society rarely demands better. This fuels a vicious cycle: lack of demand breeds mediocre journalism, which in turn fosters a populace content to remain uninformed.
The result? A society devoid of a critical conscience, easily manipulated by those in power.
The answer? We must demand real, investigative journalism. Quality journalism isn’t just about reporting events; it’s about analysis, questioning narratives, and exposing hidden truths. Sharing sensationalized, half-baked reports is not journalism – it’s noise.
However, even the best journalism falls on deaf ears if there’s no audience.
At its core, journalism should transcend mere reporting, delving deeper into analysis, interrogation, and the pursuit of truth. In today’s digital age, the proliferation of news outlets has led to an abundance of content, but true journalism distinguishes itself through its commitment to uncovering hidden truths and presenting well-researched, unbiased narratives. Yet, the reality in Nagaland, and specifically in Mokokchung, paints a stark picture of the challenges faced by journalists.
In Nagaland, journalism faces unique challenges. While thankfully there have been no losses of life, journalists in Nagaland operate under the shadow of threats and constraints, where coercion and pressure from powerful entities stifle their ability to report truthfully and independently. Here in Mokokchung, journalists find themselves summoned by local bodies for trivial matters, further hampering their freedom to report without fear or favor.
While journalists must uphold integrity, society has a responsibility to safeguard their autonomy and support their endeavors.
It’s crucial to recognize that quality journalism comes at a cost. Despite the free availability of news, the effort and resources invested in producing meaningful journalism often go unrecognized and unrewarded. Journalists, among the worst-paid professionals in Nagaland, face financial challenges that hinder their ability to pursue investigative journalism and hold authorities accountable.
Investigative journalism is a demanding endeavor, and journalists are rarely well-compensated for their work. Here’s where Mokokchung can break the mold.
Imagine if a concerned citizen, an NGO, or even a local business house sponsored a journalist to investigate a crucial local issue – the quality of roads, the lack of sports infrastructure, or any other matter of public interest, for example.
Such initiatives would not only empower journalists to delve into these issues but also foster a culture of accountability and transparency in Mokokchung.
By supporting journalists financially, we empower them to hold the powerful accountable. After all, journalists have bills to pay too.
Ultimately, the onus is on society to demand and support real journalism. By acknowledging the value of quality journalism and investing in the journalists who strive to uphold its principles, Mokokchung can lead the way in fostering an informed and engaged populace. Let’s demand quality journalism, support those who practice it, and together, awaken a more informed and empowered society. Can Mokokchung become a pioneer in this regard?