Floriano Lobo <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes:
Now, take for instance our brush with (some) the Press in Goa. Politics
in Goa has, over too long, pampered the press to such an extent that it
(press) has forgotten its responsibilities as the FOURTH ESTATE, like the
other three, the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary. GSRP has
taken on itself to remind the press that it too has to conduct itself as
the
FOURTH ESTATE.
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Not quite sure whether the politics in Goa has pampered the press but
surely, the politicians and powerhouses (industrialists) have successfully
controlled and subdued the press/journalists in Goa. Thus, on many fronts,
the press is intimidated into pussyfooting on insidious issues plaguing the
public.
Professional Journalism is a remarkable profession, and honest, ethical and
unbiased journalism can blissfully contribute to society. The press can be
a driving force and pose a formidable challenge to politicians, while
astutely shaping politics in a way to help eradicate some of the malaises
facing the public.
The press in Goa, as we know, is highly partisan and biased, which often
degenerates into shameless lying and blatant propaganda to pander to their
masters desires; often depoliticizing the public rather than engaging them.
There are scarcely a few newspapers and/or journalists that are not in bed
with those who control politics and powerhouses. This has effectively forced
the press to accept self-regulation (and selective reporting,) to protect
their own interests and ward off any threat from politicians and those in
positions of power.
Sadly, but invariably, press reporting has often turned into dictation by
politicians who have mastered the art to exploit and exert a great deal of
control over the press on what gets covered and what does not. Journalists
today spend much more time evaluating whether the politicians can
successfully spin the public (i.e. through lies and deceit) than they do
holding politicians accountable and responsible for their actions.
More stories get reported and public concerns voiced via e-media by people
like Godfrey Gonsalves and Aires Rodrigues, than some of our Goan
journalists who either shy out or cowed down from actively fulfilling their
role of factual and responsible reporting. A truly independent journalism
requires the journalist to stand outside of partisan institution,
intimidation and biases, and assume the perspective of those outside the
corridor of power.
As a legendary expression elucidates: Journalism should afflict the
comfortable and comfort the afflicted. This is certainly not happening in
our Goa State. Verily, responsible journalism is not for the fainthearted!
Joe Vaz
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