Accusing the media of ‘communal colorwashing,’ Kerala’s CPI(M) has launched a blistering critique against what it calls skewed reporting on statewide protests. The party asserts that events protesting communal agendas were falsely portrayed as religious vendettas, sparking widespread debate on press responsibility.
The flashpoint began with demonstrations in Malabar regions, where locals voiced against perceived majoritarian overreach. CPI(M) cadres led chants for unity, but evening bulletins pivoted to ‘faith riots,’ with anchors speculating on hidden motives.
In a detailed statement, the party’s central committee outlined evidence: timestamped videos showing calm dispersals ignored in favor of archival violence clips. ‘This is not journalism; it’s agenda-pushing,’ thundered LDF convener A Vijayaraghavan.
Contextually, Kerala boasts low communal incident rates per NCRB stats, crediting robust policing and social integration. Yet, national media’s Kerala focus often amplifies outliers, party leaders note.
Rival parties waded in. UDF’s V D Satheesan urged both sides to de-escalate, while BJP accused CPI(M) of minority appeasement breeding unrest. Independent observers advocate third-party audits of coverage.
CPI(M)’s retaliation strategy blends legal, digital, and street-level tactics. They’ve partnered with influencers for counter-narratives and filed complaints with the News Broadcasting Authority.
Reflecting on implications, experts caution that eroded media credibility hampers crisis response. In Kerala’s literate populace, discerning readers may turn away from sensationalism, boosting alternative voices.
As dust settles, this saga reminds of media’s pivotal role in democracy. CPI(M) pledges sustained vigilance, determined to safeguard Kerala’s syncretic legacy against distortion.