News a medium of information in all its freshness and authenticity ruled when satellite television had yet not born. Electronic media abuzz with its rehearsed & unrehearsed feeds swam with panache and accuracy. It was a code of responsibility, discipline, and no name-calling. Decorum was the undercurrent till the news got over. Beauty lied in sticking to the strict protocol of not crossing the line even if the person of that particular news feed was guilty. A sophisticated standard was followed and appreciated. It was music for the ears. One or two news bulletins were enough to spread the message.

Newsreaders with a major fan following were not only adored but commanded respect. Debates were unlikely as the criterion was to make people aware of the events. Delayed news was accepted due to a shortage of vast avenues. The technology was taking baby steps to expand its horizons. A stipulated time was standard to catch up on that particular day’s news. Members of the families got together to gain information in the early and late hours of the day. A balance that fitted perfectly.

Fast forward to the inception of satellite television, live coverage, instant incident reporting entered our living rooms. Gradually it started breathing down our necks. With an influx of news channels, TRP wars became the latest fad and obsession. Sensational news replaced authentic feeds. Editorial independence started crossing limits. Character assassination cemented itself and was acceptable too. The audience took it all, whatever was dished out on the screens. The newsreader, a self-proclaimed judge, ignores the damage it generates. Our kids are exposed to fake news, half-truths, unnecessary slander & loud exposure 24*7. The focus is to quell truths and mislead without facts to make it breaking news. Breaking news aids a channel to stellar heights. Debates are over the top. It is not news reading anymore but shrillness for ears. A panel of judges who are experts on a specific genre makes it an interesting watch indeed. Live debates add to the overall grip of a breaking story. All hell breaks loose when it is less of debate but becomes more of a battleground. The feed gets lost and personal opinions overshadow the actual incident or story of the day. It is good to have a variety of platforms to authenticate trivia but overexposure kills the purpose of news. Media trials, communal hatred and TRP scams have taken priority. The real news is amiss. With the introduction of smartphones, it has taken a new high.

Electronic media is a boon for developed as well as developing nations. News is vital for knowledge, information, and survival. There is no dearth of talent and work hence channels have some very promising careers. Be it news reading or live coverage veterans and newbies deliver with such sophistication that tuning in to listen to them can be an effortless habit but certain TRP hungry entities and non-conformists kill journalism. When news becomes an act of sensationalism it loses its credibility. If malicious content will continue coloring screens then that day is not far when electronic media will lose its sheen and impact. For peace, people will close the door and no news days will be in vogue without any questions.