Kota Incidents: Indian Media's Crucial Role In Shaping Young Minds
In an era where aspirations for upward mobility and success are fervent, and the opportunities to achieve those dreams remain competitive and limited, the recent series of student suicides in Kota has left us all in shock and sorrow. The pressure on these young minds, coupled with the burden of family expectations and the pivotal role of coaching institutes, has created a landscape fraught with uncertainty. It is in this landscape of news coverage of suicides, that the media must reflect on its responsibilities as a pillar of democracy. It is evident that the quality of suicide reporting in India has not met the necessary standards that the media sector had committed to, despite ample evidence of its impact.
In September 2019, the Press Council of India, under the chairmanship of Justice C.K. Prasad, adopted guidelines for reporting on suicides, aligning them with the WHO's recommendations. These guidelines emphasise that newspapers and news agencies, when reporting on cases of suicide, should exercise utmost caution. They should avoid placing suicide stories prominently or repeating them excessively. Language that sensationalises or normalises suicide or portrays it as a constructive solution to problems should be strictly avoided. Detailed descriptions of the methods used and information about the site or location should not be provided. Furthermore, the use of sensational headlines, as well as photographs, video footage, or social media links related to such incidents, should be restrained. These guidelines aim to promote responsible and sensitive reporting on suicide cases.
World Suicide Prevention Day, observed on September 10, underscores the urgency of our collective efforts to remove the scourge of suicide from our midst. It calls upon us to stand together, to foster compassion and understanding, and to work tirelessly towards a world where every life is valued and every individual finds the support they need in times of despair.
The media, in all its various forms—print, web, digital, social, and more—holds a powerful position in our society. It is a mirror that reflects not only the events of our world but also shapes public opinion and perception. When it comes to sensitive topics like student suicides, the media has a unique responsibility to report with utmost care and empathy. First and foremost, it is essential to remember that behind every headline and statistic, there are real lives, real families, and real communities that are affected. Sensationalising these tragic events not only violates the privacy and dignity of those involved but can also lead to a culture of glorification that further perpetuates the problem.
Moreover, the media plays a pivotal role in addressing the systemic issues that lead to such tragedies. It can serve as a watchdog, exposing the shortcomings in midst, especially in this case - our education system and the undue pressure placed on young shoulders. By delving deeper into the root causes and providing balanced coverage, the media can contribute significantly to meaningful discussions and reforms.
Suicides are not inevitable acts; they are preventable. Viewing them as a mental health topic rather than self-inflicted crimes is crucial. By focusing on the root causes of mental distress, such as societal pressures, academic burdens, and access to mental health support, the media can contribute to a more nuanced understanding. Highlighting success stories of individuals who have overcome mental health challenges and showcasing the importance of early intervention and support networks can further emphasise that suicides are not inevitable outcomes, but issues that can be addressed with empathy, understanding, and appropriate resources. The media has the potential to be a flag bearer of hope and truth in our society. With the power to shape perceptions and influence public opinion, it can serve as a catalyst for change.
Let us not forget the influence the media wields, especially over impressionable young minds. Mental health experts are well aware that exposure to suicide, whether directly or through media and entertainment, can increase the likelihood of individuals adopting suicidal behaviours. This phenomenon is formally known as "suicide contagion." According to the 2014 WHO report on suicide, the sensitive portrayal of suicide in the media is recognised as a crucial strategy for suicide prevention. The omnipresence of news in today's digital age means that every report, every headline, and every image can have a profound impact. The media shapes perceptions, influences attitudes, and molds opinions. It is, therefore, imperative that the media exercises this influence responsibly and ethically.
The "Papageno effect" demonstrates that media reporting can aid suicide prevention when it reduces stigma and encourages help-seeking. In these critical moments, media has the ability to illuminate the path towards help and healing, guiding individuals towards the support they deserve and ultimately contributing to a society that values mental well-being as a paramount concern.
In a country with hundreds of TV channels, thousands of news portals, and an insatiable appetite for content, there exists a perilous race to the bottom, driven all too often by the slippery slope of sensationalism. Media outlets vie for attention in a crowded landscape, and in this race, ethical standards can be compromised. However, media holds a profound responsibility as society's guardians. It is not merely a purveyor of news; it shapes public opinion, influences attitudes, and molds the collective consciousness. Therefore, it is imperative that the media exercises restraint and responsibility in its pursuit of viewership and readership. Hope the media industry would consider their larger role as a pillar of democracy, not just as a disseminator of information but as a force for positive change. The media can be a catalyst for societal awareness and transformation. Reporting responsibly can contribute to a culture that values the well-being and mental health of our youth over narrow definitions of success.
Dr. Srinath Sridharan - Author, Policy Researcher & Corporate Advisor.
X : @ssmumbai
