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Telangana CM Warns Against Political Parties Owning Media

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, August 2nd 2025 at 20:51 GMT by ThePrint
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Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Warns Against Political Parties Launching Media Outlets, Citing Harm to Journalism

In a pointed critique of the evolving media landscape in India, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has expressed strong concerns over the growing trend of political parties establishing their own media outlets. Speaking at a recent event, Reddy argued that such ventures not only undermine the integrity of journalism but also erode public trust in the fourth estate. His remarks come amid a broader national debate on media ownership, bias, and the blurring lines between politics and news dissemination, particularly in states like Telangana where regional politics often intersect with media interests.

Reddy's comments were delivered during an address at the inauguration of a new office building for a journalists' association in Hyderabad. He emphasized that journalism should remain an independent pillar of democracy, free from the influences of partisan agendas. "When political parties start their own media houses, it directly hurts the profession of journalism," Reddy stated, highlighting how such practices can lead to biased reporting, suppression of dissenting voices, and a dilution of factual accuracy. He drew parallels to historical instances where media control has been used as a tool for propaganda, warning that this could set a dangerous precedent in a diverse and democratic nation like India.

The Chief Minister elaborated on the potential consequences, noting that party-owned media often prioritizes political narratives over objective truth. This, he said, creates an uneven playing field where independent journalists and outlets struggle to compete. "True journalism thrives on impartiality and the courage to question power," Reddy asserted. He pointed out that in Telangana, as in other parts of India, there have been instances where media outlets affiliated with political entities have been accused of spreading misinformation or favoring certain ideologies. Without naming specific parties or channels, Reddy's remarks appeared to subtly reference ongoing controversies involving media houses linked to regional and national political players.

Expanding on his views, Reddy called for a collective effort to safeguard journalistic standards. He urged journalists to uphold ethical practices and resist pressures from political or corporate influences. "The media is the watchdog of society, not a lapdog of any party," he quipped, invoking a metaphor that resonated with the audience of media professionals. Reddy also touched upon the economic aspects, explaining how party-backed media can distort market dynamics. These outlets, often funded by political coffers, may not face the same financial scrutiny as independent ones, leading to unfair competition and potentially driving quality journalism to the margins.

In the context of Telangana's political history, Reddy's statements gain additional weight. The state has seen a surge in media proliferation since its formation in 2014, with several outlets emerging that are perceived to align with ruling or opposition parties. For instance, during the previous regime under the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), there were allegations of state favoritism toward certain media houses, which critics claimed stifled opposition voices. Reddy, who assumed office after the Congress party's victory in the 2023 assembly elections, has positioned his government as a proponent of transparency and media freedom. His administration has initiated measures to support journalists, including welfare schemes and infrastructure development, as evidenced by the event where he made these remarks.

Reddy further delved into the societal impact of politicized media. He argued that when news is filtered through a partisan lens, it polarizes public opinion and weakens democratic discourse. "In an era of fake news and social media echo chambers, we need journalism that unites rather than divides," he said. He referenced global examples, such as how state-controlled media in authoritarian regimes manipulates information, cautioning that India must avoid similar pitfalls. Closer to home, Reddy highlighted how regional language media in Telugu-speaking states often amplifies political rivalries, sometimes at the expense of developmental issues like education, healthcare, and agriculture that affect ordinary citizens.

The Chief Minister also addressed the role of technology in this equation. With the rise of digital platforms, political parties have found new avenues to launch online portals, YouTube channels, and social media handles disguised as news sources. Reddy warned that this digital shift exacerbates the problem, as algorithms can amplify biased content, reaching millions without traditional editorial checks. He advocated for regulatory frameworks that ensure transparency in media ownership, suggesting that disclosure of political affiliations could help audiences make informed choices. "Journalism is not about who owns the microphone but about who speaks the truth," he emphasized.

Reddy's speech was not without calls for introspection within the media fraternity itself. He encouraged journalists to form strong associations and self-regulate to maintain credibility. He praised the efforts of organizations like the Telangana Union of Working Journalists for fostering professional development and protecting press freedom. In a nod to the challenges faced by reporters, especially in rural areas, Reddy promised continued government support, including better access to information and protection from harassment.

The response to Reddy's remarks has been mixed. Supporters within the journalism community have hailed it as a much-needed stand against media capture by political interests. "It's refreshing to hear a leader acknowledge the threats to our profession," said a senior editor from a Hyderabad-based newspaper, speaking on condition of anonymity. However, critics, particularly from opposition circles, have accused Reddy of hypocrisy, pointing to instances where the Congress party has been linked to sympathetic media coverage in the past. BRS leaders, for example, have countered that Reddy's government is selectively favoring certain outlets, though no concrete evidence was provided in immediate rebuttals.

This debate underscores a larger national issue. Across India, political parties from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to regional outfits like the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal have been associated with media ventures. Outlets like Republic TV, often seen as aligned with the ruling BJP at the center, or local channels in states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, illustrate the trend. Experts argue that this phenomenon is rooted in the high costs of election campaigning, where controlling the narrative becomes a strategic asset. A 2023 report by the Centre for Media Studies estimated that political influence over media has grown by 40% in the last decade, though such figures are debated.

Reddy concluded his address by reiterating his commitment to a free press. "As Chief Minister, I pledge to ensure that journalism in Telangana flourishes without fear or favor," he said. He announced plans for a media conclave in the state to discuss these issues further, inviting stakeholders from across the spectrum. This initiative could potentially lead to policy recommendations aimed at insulating journalism from political overreach.

In essence, Revanth Reddy's critique serves as a clarion call for preserving the sanctity of journalism in an increasingly politicized media environment. By highlighting the dangers of party-owned outlets, he has sparked a conversation that could influence how media operates not just in Telangana but across India. As the nation grapples with information overload and trust deficits, leaders like Reddy are reminding us that a vibrant democracy depends on an independent press. Whether this translates into tangible reforms remains to be seen, but the discourse itself is a step toward accountability.

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