The article “The ugly face of Indian news media” (February 15) by Vanita Kohli-Khandekar offers some silly suggestions like setting a benchmark for news and tightening licensing norms. Oh dear! In a free market, some media channels will try to be sensational and others will try to compete. However, the success or otherwise will depend on consumer taste. In a democracy, the consumer always holds the key. A remote is a powerful tool to decide who watches what. As for the print media, sensational magazines have folded up, and if the author finds certain content “intestine curdling”, she should stop buying the magazine. That is the way free markets operate.
So instead of wringing our hands in despair, let us give people credit for common sense. If what has been published is in poor taste, it is doubtful whether it will survive for long. If the media has an ugly face, thankfully, the market leaders have a responsible one.
Dinesh Kumar, Chandigarh
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