Opinion | Positive News Promotes Positive Mindset.

Gone are the days when some newspapers and media persons in Kashmir spread misinformation to provoke common people and served as mouthpieces. Newspapers, multimedia, and journalists play an important role in society by providing firsthand information. However, Kashmir has seen the worst from newspapers, which have been more negative than positive. Many newspapers proliferated negative news and content that could provoke common people. I am not against newspapers criticizing the government or any law; they have the right to do so, but in a positive manner. We can provide information to the common people so that they perceive it positively. News provides people with information about current events, both locally and globally, enabling them to stay informed about what’s happening in their communities and the world. Access to news empowers individuals to make informed decisions in politics, business, health, and other aspects of life.

The news media holds individuals, organizations, and governments accountable by exposing corruption, injustices, and unethical practices. In democratic societies, a free and independent press is essential for ensuring transparency, facilitating debate, and enabling citizens to participate in the democratic process. News coverage raises awareness about social issues, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and human rights violations, which can lead to action and change. News allows for the exchange of ideas, perspectives, and cultures, promoting understanding and tolerance among diverse communities. Overall, news serves as a cornerstone of democracy and societal progress by keeping people informed, engaged, and empowered.

In the last thirty years of violence, propaganda on social media, newspapers, and multimedia platforms has also become a source of violence especially for the youth. Instead of showing the complete picture, these platforms have often portrayed only one side of the story, contributing to further polarization. It is surprising to see leading newspapers uploading pictures of such a content which accelerate in the violence. While I do not oppose peaceful protests and the demands of the common people within the bounds of the law, breaches of security constitute violations of law and order. Our media fraternity must address this issue from both perspectives, overlooking the importance of balanced reporting and accountability.

If we look back at newspapers from seven years ago, we’ll notice a trend of criticism and anti-India policies dominating the narrative. Surprisingly, writers with positive viewpoints were seldom given the opportunity to highlight the brighter side of society. Many writers who now refrain from expressing themselves have been silenced due to recent changes in the system. The present environment of peace has given opportunity to those all in Kashmir who actually want to contribute their intellectual service to the nation. Newspapers are often regarded as the third eye in democracy, capable of presenting both sides of the story. By promoting positive writers and stories, newspapers can serve as sources of motivation and counselling. The manner in which content is narrated is crucial. India’s robust democracy allows for such discourse in Kashmir, which contrasts starkly with the situations in China and Pakistan. In India’s vast democratic setup, common people are allowed to exercise their rights and duties within the framework of the law. However, the deliberate creation of lawlessness in Kashmir by its enemies has left it vulnerable.

Today, we witness a positive environment, peace, progress, and welfare in Kashmir, all thanks to everyone who narrates, promotes, and supports positivity in society. Newspapers and social media platforms now showcase their positive energy because they recognize that there’s nothing to gain from violence and turmoil. The recent step of abrogation has eliminated negative thoughts, ideas, and provocations. The result is evident in the form of peace, a boost in tourism, economic growth, social stability, and social justice for the society. Top stories now highlight achievements like a young girl from rural Kashmir winning a gold medal in sports, increased tourist visits, availability of schemes and developmental works, and opportunities for young people. These stories send a clear message that those who wish to live in Kashmir must follow the path of peace-loving individuals and promote peace. Kashmiris are hospitable and gentle people who need guidance and education from newspapers and other social media platforms to embrace positivity, peace, and prosperity not violence and turmoil.

Furthermore, newspapers play a crucial role in fostering positive change and development in Kashmir by highlighting success stories and achievements of individuals and communities, inspiring others and promoting a sense of pride, by educating the public about government schemes, developmental projects, and opportunities for growth, empowering them to take advantage of these initiatives, providing a platform for constructive dialogue and discussion, fostering understanding and collaboration among diverse groups, advocating for social justice, equality, and inclusivity, thereby contributing to the overall well-being of society, promoting cultural heritage, traditions, and values, fostering a sense of belonging and identity among Kashmiris.
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