Speaking at the Millat Times’ 9th-anniversary celebration at the Press Club of India, Syed Sadatullah Husaini, President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, unveiled the crisis in today’s media, saying, “The corporate media and “godi” media have entirely altered the definition of journalism itself. Throughout history, those who questioned authority have been punished, pursued, and faced numerous challenges. This has always been the case in our country as well. However, the level at which this is happening today is unprecedented – not just in our nation’s history but in the history of any civilized country. This is far from a normal situation; it is, in fact, highly abnormal. We must acknowledge this.”
Pointing out our reducing scores on the Press Freedom Index, JIH President said, “While it is not uncommon for those in power to exert pressure on the media or attempt to create difficulties for them, what we are witnessing today is entirely abnormal. It is shameful that, over the past 10-15 years, India’s ranking on the Press Freedom Index has consistently been at 159, 160, 161, or 162. Among the countries ranked above us, many are dictatorial regimes with authoritarian rulers, while very few are democratic nations. We claim to be the world’s largest democracy, but if we lag behind even dictatorial nations in terms of press freedom, what could be more disgraceful?”
Appreciating Millat Times’ work, Syed Sadatullah stated, “Post-truth journalism and post-truth media have become a case study for the world, with India serving as an example. Here, fake news is easily believed and turned into “reality,” while the truth is conveniently suppressed. The voices of the people are silenced, and the majority of society remains unrepresented. This situation is abnormal and poses a grave threat to our country. In such a context, platforms like Millat Times serve as a beacon of hope. Rather than calling it alternative media, the term “citizen journalism” is more apt. Ordinary citizens have become empowered to raise their voices, becoming active participants in the media. Strengthening such platforms is not only necessary for our country but also our collective responsibility. Millat Times deserves appreciation for its effort to engage with diverse communities by using multiple languages.”
Talking about community-level communication, JIH Chief said, “Indian Muslims require two types of communication. First is intra-community communication, where Muslims connect within the community to inspire, guide, and strengthen each other. This involves showing resilience, learning to navigate difficult circumstances, and finding paths for progress. Second is inter-community communication, where Muslims engage with other communities to ensure their voices, concerns, and perspectives are understood. Media platforms should facilitate dialogue and understanding between communities. Millat Times has admirably struck a balance between these two forms of communication. Its Urdu platform caters to intra-community communication, while its efforts in Hindi, English, Bengali, and other languages promote inter-community communication. I hope and pray that they expand their initiatives into Marathi, Telugu, Kannada, Gujarati, Punjabi, and other languages as well.”
Calling for a solutions-based approach, Syed Sadatullah suggested, “It’s not enough to highlight issues like mob lynching or other atrocities faced by Muslims. The media must also provide solutions – guidance on how to fight injustice and resolve these challenges. In contrast, inter-community communication requires uncovering and presenting the truth to the larger society. I pray the responsibilities entrusted to journalists and media platforms today are fulfilled by Millat Times and others inspired by its example. May platforms like these continue to guide, inspire, and empower countless others.”