Media comes in different forms. One is the mainstream media, which has government recognition and is part of official journalist associations. Then comes digital and social media, largely run by individuals.
Some of these social media content creators use sleazy thumbnails on YouTube to attract public attention, either to earn quick money or at least break even in the highly competitive atmosphere. This practice is unprofessional and unacceptable.
Mainstream media should condemn such behavior and alert the concerned authorities to bring them back on track.
Unfortunately, a section of mainstream media itself has started resorting to the same tactics, using misleading and vulgar thumbnails and headlines.
This trend partly led to a recent incident where a TV channel was attacked in Hyderabad. The channel’s owner later removed the thumbnails, indirectly admitting their mistake.
Only some mainstream channels, have maintained dignity in this matter. Though some are known for their political leanings, they have not stooped to unethical thumbnail practices.
On the other hand, some channels aligned with a political party are becoming worse.
The bigger question is, what is the system doing? Why is the government silent? Sadly, the current government seems to ignore such behavior because the attack was aimed at an opposition leader.
If the government changes, these same channels might switch sides and seek favor from the new ruling party. This cycle may repeat, with other channels continuing the same unethical practices.
So here, the mainstream media must correct its course, and the government should step in to regulate such content.
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right, but not everything falls under its protection.
I humbly request the government to take appropriate action or at least issue warnings to the concerned channels, which could serve as a guideline for others.
Sekhar, Journalist
