From attacking writers to targeting TV channels (Editorial and “TV channel targeted for talk show”, both March 13), the question that arises is what kind of debate are we trying to encourage in society? Many of these fringe groups are representative of those who are not ready to hear anything against their worldview and taking cover in the name of religion and religious sentiments. They don’t want to accept that in a real democracy, every citizen has a right to express himself. If the motive is to stop people from thinking and deciding things independently, these elements are in for a rude shock.
Narendra S. Ujjwal,New Delhi
While the attack on a TV news channel in Chennai is condemnable, it should not be concluded that whatever unlawful act was done by fringe elements is a reflection of society as a whole. Even today, there are millions who still believe in non-violence and accept a diverse and multilayered ethos.
I would also like to say that there is a need to control the media. There appears to be a newfound activism in the media which feels that anything can be aired in the name of freedom of expression. There is no such unfettered freedom for the media. The programme in Chennai was in the name of “empowerment of women”! India’s Daughter was in the name of creating awareness. These ‘escape tactics’ do not convince people. There is said to be a watchdog for the print/ electronic media. Isn’t it monitoring content and enforcing discipline?
Suryanarayanan S.,Chennai
