What is said or written in the media or newspapers is usually considered to be the absolute truth. This is especially true even in our Naga context. Newspapers here are therefore seen as vital channel of public communication and if we can add here as opinion makers. However the problem with the print or any other media for that matter is the endless possibilities of something being either reported inaccurately or even if it is accurate, there could be variation in the interpretation. Depending on how one looks at it, the same report or statement could be interpreted one way by some while differently by still others. So this is the problem with publication of news reports or statements in the media or newspapers. Especially during times of conflict, upheaval or crisis like the one we are now witnessing, newspapers must be cautious not to provoke or stoke the delicate situation. Having the freedom of speech and expression does not give anyone the license to foment hatred or create terror in people’s mind. Reports of SMS, MMS being used to encourage violence against whichever community is wrong and no democracy despite granting the fundamental right to free speech or expression can allow the abuse of this right. Media in this case does not include only newspapers or television. With the aid of technology there is today a wider reach to a larger audience through online portals, social media sites such as Facebook or Twitter, which are all beneficial and at the same time a nuisance depending on its proper use or misuse. The current exodus of northeastern people from cities across South India was as a result of rumours being spread especially through mobile media technology about possible attack on them. The fact that the media platform is able to project a particular material or subject and disseminate it to the target audience, greater care should be taken by all concerned.
Coming to the home situation, again the media in this case the newspapers should play an enabling role, one that addresses the necessities of peace, reconciliation and a common endeavor. While we can say that by and large local newspapers have been responsible, the same cannot be said about the mainstream media in mainland India. Often at times there is the inclination to get a good story out on the Naga political issue whether it is the peace or reconciliation process. Rather than helping the situation, some of these news reports they do more damage to the processes. Interestingly, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) in a recent press communiqué mentioned about “some media house” who reportedly “interviewed” the General Secretary of the GPRN/NSCN. The report that came out as a result of this interview did not go down well with the NSCN/GPRN (IM) who then distanced themselves from an important peace summit at Chiang Mai. Later it was clarified (through the FNR) that what was stated in the interview was “completely misunderstood”. Media from mainland India may not be doing so intentionally but they seem to lack proper understanding on the Naga issue or the sensibilities involved. As talks of a settlement grows louder, the media in mainland India and also newspapers in Nagaland will have to report with greater finesse and with thorough knowledge, background and understanding of the Naga story. At the other end of the spectrum, those who engage with the media should also do so with caution knowing that their every word said could end up being misreported or taken out of context. Perhaps issuing written statement is a safer way of communicating to the media, at least in the present Naga context. At the end of the day, media occupies a large space of public consciousness and it is an important tool for communication and generating public opinion. One should not undermine the power of the media, which also makes it even more necessary for the media to act with greater responsibility and wisdom.
