Democracy's new guardian: The watchdog role of digital media

Digital media is making its mark through fearless reporting that challenges institutional power and provides space for diverse voices

- ADITYA MUKHERJEE

Digital media has taken center stage in Indian journalism, shaking up print media's longtime hold. This shift reflects a growing demand for real-time, accessible, and often more fearless reporting on critical issues.

Digital media's role in India is transformative, empowering citizens to engage with content on their terms, questioning the status quo and pushing print media to innovate.

Digital media in India is making its mark through fearless reporting that challenges institutional power and provides space for diverse voices. With the spread of smartphones and internet access, digital news outlets reach millions of Indians who previously relied solely on television or print. They provide detailed coverage on issues ranging from politics to environmental concerns and socio-economic inequalities, often shedding light on topics that are ignored or underreported in traditional print.

Digital media's freedom from the financial pressures of physical print allows for more dynamic and sometimes fearless reporting. Several platforms have been vocal in covering complex issues related to governance, corruption, and human rights, pushing boundaries that some print publications avoid due to editorial pressures. This unfiltered approach has allowed digital media to play a watchdog role in democracy.