Journalism, they say in the digital era, is history written in a hurry. Nowhere is this more evident than in the current scenario unfolding in Manipur, where the media organizations find themselves entangled in a web of urgency and responsibility. In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, various reputable media outlets have fallen victim to the allure of sensationalism, forsaking the essence of their noble profession. Unverified information and malicious intent have birthed a wave of fake articles, painting a distorted picture of one particular community or organization. This vicious cycle continues unabated, perpetuating a state of unrest and disarray.
The violence that erupted on that fateful May 3rd seemed to possess an insatiable appetite, devouring the tranquility that once graced every corner of Manipur. Its tendrils wrapped around the lives of Kukis, Meiteis, and all other communities nestled within the state, indiscriminately inflicting pain and suffering upon innocent individuals. However, while the people of Manipur, disconnected from the vast expanse of the digital world, remain unaware, those outside the state revel in the luxury of uninhibited access to social networking sites. Here, in the realm of online anonymity, they seize the opportunity to sow seeds of discord, fabricating news and information at will.
Through the power of words, aided by graphics, morphed pictures, and fake videos, these keyboard warriors orchestrate a symphony of hate, their instruments the comfort of rented apartments and homes outside the state. Fueling the flames of division, they unleash an onslaught of falsehoods, engendering an atmosphere rife with uncertainty and animosity. It is within this environment that the seeds of normalcy struggle to find fertile ground, thwarted at every turn by the proliferation of fake news. Thus, it becomes imperative for both the Kukis and Meiteis, should they genuinely desire resolution and tranquility, to embrace the mantle of responsible citizenship.
To navigate these troubled waters, the media must embody its true essence—the pursuit of truth and the preservation of integrity. It falls upon their shoulders to separate fact from fiction, to resist the temptation of hasty publication and instead embark on a meticulous quest for accuracy. The power they wield must be wielded responsibly, a beacon of light cutting through the dense fog of misinformation that engulfs Manipur.
Responsible journalism does not merely entail reporting what is convenient or aligns with preconceived notions. It is an arduous journey that demands the pursuit of multiple perspectives, seeking the truth that resides in the interstices of conflicting narratives. It requires journalists to tread cautiously, guided by a commitment to justice, empathy, and the unwavering pursuit of veracity.
Beyond the realm of journalism, each citizen, regardless of their affiliations, must assume the mantle of responsibility in this delicate ecosystem. By arming themselves with discernment and critical thinking, they can become the guardians of truth. Each individual must be vigilant, curating their own media consumption, and ensuring that the information they propagate aligns with reality.
It is through these collective efforts that Manipur can hope to reclaim its tranquility. The path towards normalcy may be treacherous, but it is one that must be traversed with a steadfast commitment to the principles that underpin the noble profession of journalism. In the face of adversity, let truth reign supreme, dispelling the darkness and paving the way for understanding, unity, and lasting peace. For Manipur’s sake, and the sake of its people, let us pen a new chapter—one characterized by journalistic integrity and a commitment to the truth.