Veteran journalist critiques lifetime awards, laments decline of media

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

In a fiery speech delivered while accepting the “Lifetime Achievement Award” presented by Working Journalists of India, veteran journalist MVR Sastry sharply criticised the practice of conferring lifetime achievement honours, describing them as meaningless rituals for retired individuals, and launched a scathing attack on the current state of Indian journalism and public institutions. The veteran journalist argued that such awards often involve elderly retirees being paraded on stage to recount past deeds, only for the honouree to downplay their contributions. He questioned the relevance of recounting past actions from the 1970s or 1980s, suggesting that in a country of 1.4 billion people, singling out one individual for praise overlooks broader realities.

He expressed strong reservations about the “fourth estate” — the media — which he said has become rotten and compromised, losing its traditional role as a watchdog. “Everything is wrong with the media,” he stated bluntly, noting that while the judiciary, legislature, and executive have their flaws, the media, meant to check them, has itself become one of the most degraded institutions. He pointed out that unlike other pillars of democracy, the Indian Constitution offers limited explicit protection to press freedom beyond general freedom of expression.

The speaker painted a grim picture of journalists’ working conditions: low or irregular pay, lack of job security, constant pressure, threats and minimal recognition. Many, he said, live in fear, unsure if they will return home safely or receive their salaries. He contrasted this with politicians and judges who enjoy pensions and privileges despite poor performance or alleged corruption. He highlighted the dedication of reporters who work 24 hours under uncertainty, sometimes without even their own publication acknowledging their deaths.

He criticized the dominance of management and political interests in media houses, which he said stifles editorial independence. Despite the bleak assessment, the journalist struck a note of hope and resolve. He revealed that he had retired in 2017 not because work was over, but because much remained to be done. He urged fellow journalists to engage in serious introspection about their existence and contribution to society.

In a constructive turn, he announced efforts to build an alternative, independent media platform through the Dharmashakti Trust. The initiative aims to create a mainstream newspaper, satellite channel, and digital platforms funded by public contributions (crowd-funding) rather than political or corporate interests. It would stand for the people, question those in power regardless of party, and uphold professional standards of journalism. He invited civil society, young journalists, and professionals to join, offering training and ideas for a renewed, ethical media ecosystem.

The speech, delivered at what appeared to be a journalists’ federation event, received attention for its candidness. MVR Sastry challenged attendees to move beyond complaints and contribute — whether through work, ideas, or small financial support — to rebuild credible journalism in India.