Tamanna Nasreen
(nasreentamanna429@gmail.com)
The rise of online portals has sparked a heated debate about their role in journalism. Are they legitimate news sources or simply purveyors of sensationalized content? The question has sparked a contentious discussion among media professionals, policymakers, and the public. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to examine the role of online portals in journalism and their implications for the industry.
In recent years, the rapid rise of online portals and digital content creators has dramatically reshaped the media landscape. With millions turning to blogs, Instagram reels, and YouTube channels for their daily news fix, one might ask: are these digital personalities the new journalists?
The answer is a resounding no.
The Digital Media Ethics Rule 2021, introduced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, aims to regulate digital media platforms and ensure they adhere to certain standards. The rules define digital news media as “any online platform that publishes news and current affairs content”. This definition raises questions about the nature of online portals and their relationship to traditional journalism.
The heart of the issue lies in the blurring of lines between journalism and opinion and between fact and narrative. Blogs and video commentaries are frequently passed off as “news”, when in fact they are heavily opinionated and often serve as propaganda tools. This is especially concerning when these influencers claim neutrality while pushing personal or political agendas.
Where traditional journalism involves layers of fact-checking, editorial oversight, and a commitment to public service, most online portals bypass these critical steps. Instead, they rely on clickbait, outrage, and emotional manipulation to drive views and increase engagement. Sensational headlines, misrepresented facts, and biased coverage dominate much of the digital sphere, distorting public discourse and misleading audiences.
Supporters argue that online platforms democratize media and give voice to the marginalized. While this may be true in theory, in practice, these spaces often become echo chambers. A closer look reveals that the diversity touted by online platforms is frequently undermined by the sheer volume of misinformation and the absence of journalistic ethics.
Ethical journalism is not just about telling stories—it’s about telling the truth, holding power to account, and serving the public interest. Most online portals fall woefully short of this standard. They are not journalists in the true sense, but content creators chasing algorithms, monetizing controversy, and shaping public opinion without responsibility.
Even with the Digital Media Ethics Rule 2021 in place, implementation remains symbolic at best. Rules requiring fact-checking, source transparency, and grievance redressal sound promising on paper but have little effect if not rigorously enforced. What we need is not just regulation but a cultural shift that reaffirms the value of credible journalism and clearly distinguishes it from digital content creation.
The debate surrounding online portals highlights the blurring of lines between traditional journalism and digital media. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to recognize that online portals are not mutually exclusive with traditional journalism.
In fact, many online portals are run by experienced journalists who bring a level of expertise and credibility to their reporting. These portals often provide in-depth analysis and commentary on current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the issues. While there are valid concerns about the credibility and accountability of online portals, there are also opportunities for innovation and growth.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential to recognize the role of online portals in journalism. By embracing the diversity and inclusivity of online portals, we can create a more vibrant and dynamic media ecosystem.
The Digital Media Ethics Rule 2021 is a step in the right direction, but its effectiveness will depend on enforcement and compliance. As we move forward, it’s essential to continue the conversation about the role of online portals in journalism and their implications for the industry.
The future of journalism is uncertain, but one thing is clear: online portals are here to stay. As we navigate this new landscape, it’s essential to prioritize credibility, accountability, and transparency.
By embracing the opportunities and challenges presented by online portals, we can create a more inclusive and diverse media ecosystem. The blurring of lines between traditional journalism and digital media is not a threat but an opportunity for growth and innovation. As we look to the future, the role of online portals in journalism will continue to evolve in the future. It is up to us to shape this evolution and ensure that online portals contribute to a more informed and engaged public rather than a more amused and confused one.
The heart of the issue lies in the blurring of lines between journalism and opinion, fact and narrative, and news and views. Blogs and video commentaries are frequently passed off as “news”, when in fact they are heavily opinionated and often serve as propaganda tools.