In a climate where fear casts its shadow over an entire nation, a handful of courageous journalists and anchors emerge as beacons of true journalism. India’s mainstream media, often accused of dancing to the tunes of corporates and political agendas, has witnessed a disturbing shift in the last decade—morphing into a potential tool for the transformation of democracy into dictatorship.
Over the past seven years of Modi Government rule, instances of journalists facing scrutiny, torture, and arrest by central agencies have become alarmingly common. These professionals, committed to presenting the unvarnished truth, find themselves in precarious positions as they navigate a landscape overshadowed by fear.
Amidst this atmosphere of trepidation, there are noteworthy individuals who stand out in their commitment to True journalism. Here are the top 5 Indian journalists and programs offering a real glimpse into India:
Abhisar Sharma
A seasoned journalist and anchor with a career spanning from 1995 to 2018 in mainstream media, Abhisar Sharma has since transitioned to freelance journalism. His outspoken and emotional approach to reporting, notably in instances like discussing the tragic death of a small Muslim child, reflects a deep concern for the country’s well-being. You can subscribe to Abhisar Sharma on Youtube here.
Punya Prasun Bajpai
An accomplished journalist and writer, Punya Prasun Bajpai’s in-depth knowledge of Indian politics is evident in his body of work. Notable for his program ‘Masterstroke,’ Bajpai left ABP News due to perceived government pressure, showcasing his commitment to unbiased reporting. You can subscribe to Punya Prasun Bajpai on YouTube here.
Arfa Khanum Sherwani
As a senior editor at The Wire, Arfa Khanum Sherwani brings maturity and decorum to her journalistic endeavors. Despite facing threats and backlash for her coverage, she continues to conduct interviews that delve into the realistic picture of India. Watch Arfa Khanum’s recent work here.
Karan Thapar
Known for his aggressive interviews with leading figures, Karan Thapar has navigated through various media houses since 1981. His unyielding questioning even made waves during an interview with the current Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, showcasing the impact of fearless journalism. You can watch Karan Thapar on Youtube.
Ravish Kumar
Ravish Kumar stands as a beacon of true journalism, reporting on the ground realities and issues faced by ordinary Indians. His sharp insights and integrity have earned him the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award, and his term ‘Godi Media’ has become a household term for media channels driven by political and corporate interests. You can watch Ravish Kumar here.
While these five individuals are highlighted, it’s important to acknowledge that they are not the sole torchbearers of true journalism. Others like Ajit Anjum, Dhruv Rathi, and Ashutosh Gupta contribute significantly to a diverse media landscape, offering insights into ground realities, in-depth analysis, and political updates, respectively.
In a media environment rife with challenges, these journalists exemplify the resilience and dedication required to uphold the principles of true journalism.