In an age where information travels faster than ever, the responsibility of the media to report accurately and ethically has never been more critical.
Recent events surrounding the case of Ramen Roy, a Dhaka-based lawyer, have starkly illustrated the perils of misinformation, particularly as it pertains to the sensitive issue of falsely-narrated religious persecution in Bangladesh.
This newspaper on Friday reported that prominent Indian media outlets, including The Hindu and NDTV, have sensationalised Roy’s so-called brutal attack, framing it as a direct consequence of his legal representation of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a controversial religious figure.
This narrative, which has gained traction on social media, paints an opposite picture of religious harmony in Bangladesh, fuelling outrage and concern among international audiences.
However, local sources have decisively challenged these claims, asserting that the attack stemmed from unrelated personal disputes rather than any religious or political motivations.
The response from figures within Bangladesh, such as Andaleeve Rahman Partho and Swatantra Gouranga Das, has been clear: the Indian media’s portrayal is not only misleading but also politically motivated.
Champa Roy, Ramen’s sister, has echoed these sentiments, labelling the narratives as attempts to stir communal unrest.
Such misrepresentation is not merely a journalistic failure; it is a dangerous act that can exacerbate tensions between communities and nations.
The broader implications of this incident are troubling. Following the political upheaval in Bangladesh, there appears to be a concerted effort by certain Indian media outlets — often referred to as “Godi Media” — to exploit the situation for political gain.
This aligns with alarming reports of a disinformation campaign allegedly financed by the Indian government, aimed at destabilising its neighbours.
As citizens of a global community, we must remain vigilant against the spread of misinformation.
The case of Ramen Roy serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of sensationalist reporting and the urgent need for responsible journalism.
Media outlets must prioritise accuracy over sensationalism, particularly when reporting on sensitive issues that can impact international relations and communal harmony.
In an era where narratives can shape perceptions and policies, let us advocate for truth and integrity in journalism, ensuring that the voices of those directly affected are heard and respected.
