India Off the Record - Reporter’s Diary

Whoever thought that novel coronavirus or COVID-19 would become a communal topic. It has in India with the idiocracy of the entire Muslim community and the government turning a blind eye. A religious congregation held in Nizamuddin of New Delhi with thousands in attendance has become a super spreader. Hundreds linked to the congregation have tested positive for COVID-19 and the exposure to others is unimaginable. Islamophobia here is with reason!

Journalists are often faced with the dilemma of whether to cover a story or not. When the network and the reporter isn’t on the same page on a story it becomes even more trying. More tragic are the times when the reporters on ground have to refuse to cover a person’s strife who are hopeful that the media may help.

Coronavirus or the COVID-19 has become a global concern. While India has been fortunate not to report a single death toll due to COVID-19 so far, questions on India’s preparedness is being raised. Covering the updates of COVID-19 when the health officials remain evasive has contributed to the aggravated panic among people.

India is in the state of mourning over the Delhi riots from where harrowing stories are coming to light days later, while the communal tension remains palpable across the country. It is not difficult to see the patterns and discern how riots were triggered and who was behind it. If we go by simple logic, the the ruling BJP government is the first accused.

I took a little vacation, and went on my very first solo trip to North Goa. This is how I beat my second thoughts on taking the solo trip with obvious concerns about safety. A shout out to all women for this women’s day! You can also take a Solo trip too!!!

With the brutal rape and murder of Bulgarian Journalist Viktoria Marinova, once again the question of journalists’ safety has been questioned. Who will stand with us? People? Governments?

There a huge movement underway in India against the Citizenship Act of Modi govt. But what role is the media playing as scores of people pour in on the streets.

This episode is a glimpse into who I am and where I stand in the world of journalism. Before I get into specifics of stories, this is about the sheer struggle that shouldn’t go unheard. Since every big thing has an embarrassing start, this is mine.