Upholding Ethics in Media

The relationship between governance and journalism has always required a careful balance, where the state ensures accountability and journalists uphold the truth. In Jammu and Kashmir, this balance has entered a new phase following Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s directive to identify fake journalists and regulate digital media platforms through mandatory verification. The initiative, viewed by many as a necessary step toward restoring credibility in journalism, has also invited reflection on the delicate interplay between regulation, freedom, and the evolving meaning of journalism in today’s digital landscape.

In recent years, the media ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, much like elsewhere in the country, has expanded rapidly. The rise of online news portals, social media-based publications, and self-proclaimed journalists has blurred the distinction between professional reporting and personal opinion. Traditional pillars of journalism, such as editorial oversight, accountability, and ethical standards, are often missing in many of these new spaces. The misuse of media identity cards and the growing presence of unverified “news” platforms have not only confused the public but also undermined the credibility of genuine journalists. Against this backdrop, the government’s plan to implement a structured verification process for journalists and digital media entities is seen as an attempt to address a growing crisis of authenticity. The Lieutenant Governor’s direction to Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police to identify individuals posing as journalists is, in essence, an effort to protect the dignity of the profession. The goal is not to silence voices or limit expression but to ensure that the title of “journalist” is not misused by those who exploit it for personal or political purposes. The proposal to build a verified database of accredited and active journalists under the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) reflects an attempt to introduce structure, transparency, and accountability. Such a move can help restore order in a field where misinformation and unethical practices have become too frequent. However, this effort must be approached with sensitivity and care. While many support the need to curb misuse, some fear that government-led regulation could, if misapplied, threaten press freedom. These concerns highlight the importance of implementing the verification system with fairness and transparency. Accreditation should be based on genuine credentials, ethical conduct, and professional merit, not political alignment or convenience. Digital platforms that follow journalistic principles must also be recognised as part of this process, even if they operate independently or outside traditional news organisations. The initiative also serves as an opportunity for the media fraternity to introspect. Alongside the conversation on press freedom, there must also be an honest dialogue about press responsibility. Ethical journalism remains the foundation of a healthy democracy, and it demands accuracy, fairness, and compassion. Journalists must reclaim the values that define their profession and draw a clear line between truth and propaganda. If the media aspires to remain the fourth pillar of democracy, it must rebuild the public trust that has been eroded by sensationalism and partisanship. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s directive should therefore be viewed not merely as an administrative order but as a catalyst for reform. It invites both the government and the media to recommit to higher standards of conduct and cooperation. The administration must act with fairness, avoiding any impression of censorship, while the press must strengthen its internal codes of ethics and accountability. Together, they can create a media environment where transparency and responsibility coexist with freedom and creativity. The future of journalism in Jammu and Kashmir depends on this collective effort. A free and responsible press is vital to democracy, but so too is an informed and accountable system that protects the truth from being manipulated. The initiative to verify journalists and regulate digital media should not be seen as a curb on freedom but as a means to restore integrity to public discourse. Ultimately, journalism flourishes not through proximity to power but through its steadfast commitment to honesty, empathy, and principle. By reinforcing these values, both the government and the media can help ensure that truth remains the cornerstone of public life and that journalism continues to serve as the conscience of the Republic.

The Jammu and Kashmir Government must act decisively to ensure that the verification process for journalists and digital media is transparent, fool proof, and immune to manipulation. It is time to eliminate impostors misusing the press tag and protect the integrity of genuine professionals. Strict enforcement, regular audits, and zero tolerance for fake journalism are essential to restore credibility and public trust in the media.