Reporters Without Orders Ep 129: On dissent, toxic TV debates and the death of Rajiv Tyagi, and more

In this episode, host Snigdha Sharma is joined by Newslaundry’s Akanksha Kumar and Basant Kumar. 

The discussion begins with Akanksha’s report on the discourse over whether it was toxic TV news debates that resulted in the death of Congress spokesperson, Rajiv Tyagi. Discussing the manner in which debates are conducted on national television, Akanksha says, “Yes, TV debates are toxic, but linking them to Tyagi’s death has to stop.” She draws attention to how Tyagi made a space for himself as a TV commentator known for his theatrics and as the only person who could “take on BJP’s Sambit Patra.” Basant also points out how “Tyagi knew how TV debates are conducted, he knew what he was getting into.” The panel agrees that while it is about time we rethink the toxicity on display on news channels every night, it is unfair to blame the anchor Rohit Sardana or Sambit Patra for Tyagi’s untimely demise.

The discussion then moves on to Basant’s report, a follow-up on the attack on Caravan journalists. A day after the attack, Basant attended a press conference by The Caravan team. The number of people who showed up speaks volumes on how much people actually care about journalists and press freedom in India, says Basant. Snigdha and Basant also bring up the statement issued by Editors Guild regarding the attack which they feel was “disappointing” to say the least.

Basant also talks about his conversation with Arundhati Roy, who was present at the event, about the attack and the slow strangulation of dissent across the country. 

This and a lot more as they talk about what made news this week, what didn’t, and what shouldn’t have.

Tune in!

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