In a recent statement, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar voiced his unequivocal support for journalists, emphasizing their essential role in society and their right to free expression. This declaration comes in the wake of the Opposition bloc INDIA’s announcement of a boycott targeting 14 television news anchors. Notably, Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) is a member of the 26-party strong INDIA alliance.
Addressing reporters, Nitish Kumar conveyed his lack of prior knowledge regarding the INDIA bloc’s decision to boycott TV news anchors. He firmly asserted his endorsement of press freedom and journalist autonomy, highlighting the importance of journalists having the liberty to report impartially.
“I have no idea about this…I am in support of journalists. When everyone gets full freedom, journalists will write what they like. Are they controlled? Have I ever done it? They have rights, I am not against anyone,” Nitish Kumar articulated.
Furthermore, he expressed his perspective on the state of media affairs, particularly at the national level, hinting at possible external influences and constraints. “Right now those who are at the Centre have controlled a few people…Those who are with us (INDIA bloc parties) must have felt that something is happening. However, I am not against anyone,” the Bihar Chief Minister elaborated.
The INDIA bloc, on Thursday, disclosed a list of 14 television news anchors whose programs will be subject to boycott by the alliance’s media representatives. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, who announced this decision, outlined the bloc’s stance on media coverage that incites hatred and violence, emphasizing their readiness to confront such narratives.
The News Broadcasters and Digital Association (NBDA) expressed reservations about the boycott, describing it as a concerning precedent. The association asserted that this action contradicted the democratic principles of a free press and reflected an intolerance towards diverse voices.
Conversely, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) drew parallels between this decision and the period of Emergency in India’s history, characterizing it as an attempt to stifle media and suppress dissenting opinions. BJP MP Anil Baluni accused the alliance parties of adopting an “anarchic and Emergency mindset,” resulting in a direct threat to the media’s role as a conduit for public expression and information dissemination.