• Fr. Sudeep Paul MSFS
  [ARC India’s New Co-ordinator]*

You are immersed in media actions in your career, why are you so much interested in the media?
I have always been deeply interested in media and communication due to its profound impact on society. Following my regency, my Provincial Superior, Rev. Fr. Jose Parapillil, encouraged me to pursue a master’s in communication and journalism. This pivotal moment sparked my journey in the field. Over the years, I have been involved as a writer, media educator, and served as the Dean of Niscort. Presently, I hold the role of Regional Secretary of the Social Communications Commission of KRCBC, the Karnataka Regional Bishops Conference. These experiences have further deepened my passion for media, allowing me to witness first-hand its power to inform, educate, and influence society positively.

Media is news and views, why is it called the fourth estate in our country and what is its importance?
The importance of the media as the fourth estate lies in its ability to act as a check on power by providing unbiased information, disseminating news, and offering diverse perspectives. It plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion, facilitating informed decision-making, and fostering transparency in governance. Through investigative journalism, it unveils societal issues, corruption, and injustices, thus influencing policies and public discourse. In essence, the media serves as a guardian of democracy by ensuring the free flow of information and fostering an informed and engaged citizenry.

Does the media in India reflect the voice of the people of this country? Media are also institutions with their own interests, are they also playing to the interests of the powers that be?
The media landscape in India is diverse, encompassing various viewpoints and representing a spectrum of voices. However, whether it entirely reflects the voice of the people is a complex matter. While media outlets strive to portray public sentiments, there are instances where their narratives might be influenced by several factors.
Firstly, media organizations, like any institution, have their interests, which can occasionally shape the content they present. Commercial considerations, editorial policies, and affiliations may influence the portrayal of news.
Moreover, there are concerns about certain sections of the media aligning with the interests of those in power. Sometimes, media outlets may exhibit biases or favour particular political or corporate entities, impacting the objectivity and balance in their reporting.
However, it’s important to note that not all media outlets are uniform in their stance. There are numerous responsible journalists and publications dedicated to reporting truthfully and upholding journalistic integrity.
The evolving nature of media in India means that while some outlets may cater to specific interests, others strive to remain impartial, reflecting a diverse range of opinions and advocating for the voices of the people. Yet, the media’s role in representing the true voice of the country remains an ongoing discussion and an area for constant scrutiny and improvement.

Often media people are news writers, any writing is also a measuring of events which involves values, what values are the media people committed to? Is there an ethical consensus for the media people?
Media professionals are entrusted with the crucial responsibility of reporting news and shaping public discourse, which inherently involves a set of values guiding their work. While the media landscape is diverse and comprises individuals with varied perspectives, there are commonly shared values and ethical principles that many in the field adhere to.
Some of the core values that media professionals are committed to include: Truth and Accuracy, Objectivity and Impartiality, Independence, Transparency and Accountability, Public Interest etc. While these values are widely recognized, achieving a consensus on ethical standards across the media spectrum can be challenging. The industry’s ethical guidelines, codes of conduct, and journalistic principles vary among different media organizations, associations, and regions.
However, professional bodies and associations often establish codes of ethics, guiding journalists and media professionals in upholding these values. These codes emphasize ethical practices, responsible reporting, and maintaining the public’s trust in the media. Despite differing interpretations and challenges, the commitment to these core values forms the ethical foundation that many media professionals strive to adhere to in their work.

Indian society is also confronted by religious fundamentalism, how is the Indian media responding to the religious fundamentalism which we see every day even in our politics?
The Indian media stands as a crucial player in addressing and navigating the complexities surrounding religious fundamentalism, a pervasive issue affecting various facets of society, including its political landscape. Its response to such occurrences reflects the intricate socio-political fabric of India.
In the vast realm of news coverage, media outlets meticulously report on incidents entwined with religious fundamentalism. They meticulously analyse the implications of these events, shedding light on communal tensions, hate speech, religious conflicts, and any occurrences posing threats to communal harmony. This serves as a pivotal step in bringing these issues to the forefront of public awareness.
Certain media organizations engage in deep-dive investigative journalism and delve into the underlying causes of religiously motivated conflicts. Their in-depth reports aim to unravel the roots of these tensions, exposing any vested interests driving these issues, thereby aiming for a deeper comprehension among the populace.
A few outlets provide a platform for multifarious voices; the media orchestrates debates, discussions, and talk shows. These arenas invite experts, religious leaders, activists, and politicians to exchange views, fostering public discourse and awareness. These interactions play a vital role in shaping public opinion and understanding of issues surrounding religious fundamentalism.
Moreover, several media outlets champion the cause of pluralism, secularism, and tolerance. Through their narratives, they advocate for unity and coexistence among diverse religious communities. Their emphasis lies in nurturing peaceful dialogue and understanding, fostering an environment of tolerance and acceptance.
However, the media landscape isn’t immune to challenges. Criticisms surface regarding sensationalism in reporting religious conflicts, which, at times, can inflame tensions. Instances where biases or polarizing political influences seep into reporting further strain the media’s efforts to maintain neutrality and objectivity.
To address these challenges, media organizations strive to adhere to ethical standards and the regulatory framework. Self-regulatory bodies and industry associations emphasize responsible and ethical reporting, especially when dealing with sensitive issues intertwined with religious sentiments.
The Indian media, thus, plays a multi-faceted role in responding to religious fundamentalism. Despite its efforts to report objectively and promote dialogue, it grapples with maintaining a balanced approach, steering clear of sensationalism, and cultivating a narrative that fosters unity and communal harmony in India’s diverse societal fabric.

Solzhenitsyn in his speech for the Nobel Prize, he said, “a word of truth weighs more than the world.” Are we not living in a post-truth era, why and how shall be truthful culture? Why knowing and doing have parted company? And lies are rampant in power positions? Has politics become an art of lying? How different is the church?
In this complex era, the weight of truth seems to have shifted, as if a veil of subjectivity obscures the clear and undeniable truth that once held such significance. Solzhenitsyn’s profound words upon receiving the Nobel Prize resonate deeply amidst a world where facts seem to waver in their authority. We now find ourselves entrenched in what many term a “post-truth” era, where subjective emotions, personal beliefs, and opinions often overshadow objective reality and verifiable truths.
The reasons underlying this unsettling shift are varied and intricate. One of the primary challenges emerges from the overwhelming abundance of information inundating our lives. Technology and the internet, while incredibly powerful tools, have unleashed an avalanche of data, blurring the lines between authentic information and disinformation or even deliberate propaganda.
Social media, acting as a catalyst, exacerbates this issue. It accelerates the spread of information, sometimes unchecked, allowing falsehoods to travel at lightning speed, weaving their way into the fabric of societal beliefs.
Moreover, our own human tendencies play a pivotal role. Confirmation bias, the inclination to seek information that aligns with our pre-existing beliefs while dismissing contradictory evidence, further entrenches these falsehoods.
Yet, it’s not solely the information landscape; manipulation and the quest for power add another layer to this complex issue. Those in influential positions sometimes manipulate facts, distorting reality to serve their personal or political agendas.
Creating a culture that reveres truthfulness demands a collective and concerted effort. Encouraging critical thinking, educating on media literacy, and fostering ethical leadership are pivotal steps toward rebuilding the foundations of truth.
However, amidst this era of post-truth, a deeper concern emerges–the divergence between knowing and doing. We often find ourselves standing on the shores of truth, understanding it intellectually, yet failing to align our actions with this comprehension. Personal interests, societal pressures, or a lack of moral conviction often guide our actions, despite our knowledge of the truth.
Within the political realm, there’s a growing apprehension that deception and manipulation have woven themselves deeply into the fabric of governance. Some politicians employ strategic lies or distorted truths to sway public opinion, secure votes, or cling to power, eroding the trust placed in political institutions.
On the other hand, the Church remains a beacon, striving to uphold values steeped in truthfulness and ethical conduct. While individuals within the Church may falter, its teachings consistently emphasize honesty, integrity, and the intrinsic value of speaking the truth.
To counter the pervasive prevalence of lies in positions of power, our society must recalibrate its compass toward truthfulness and ethical leadership. It’s not merely a call for political reform but a collective societal commitment to nurture a culture that values honesty, integrity, and the alignment of actions with moral principles. Only through this united effort can we navigate through this labyrinth of post-truth to reclaim the weight and significance of truth in our world.

Social media at least in India is saturated with hate speech, how come we are living with such hate in our country? Are you apprehensive of the dangerous situation we are in?
The rise of hate speech on social media in India stands as a deeply concerning trend, casting shadows on the nation’s social coherence. Rooted in various factors, this proliferation of divisive content mirrors the fractures within society.
At the heart of this surge lies the intricate web of polarization and identity politics. Divisions based on religion, caste, ethnicity, and ideologies become fertile ground for hate speech, often exploited for personal or political motives. The veil of anonymity draped over social media platforms empowers individuals to unleash extreme viewpoints without fear of repercussions, perpetuating the spread of hateful content.
Moreover, the creation of echo chambers within these online realms further fuels the fire. People tend to congregate among like-minded individuals, solidifying divisive opinions while silencing dissenting voices, breeding an environment where hate speech thrives unchecked.
Amidst this atmosphere of growing animosity, concerns about the nation’s social fabric and harmony loom large. The proliferation of hate speech has the potential to corrode trust, instill fear, and sow conflict among communities, potentially spilling over into real-world consequences like communal tensions and violence.
Mitigating this distressing trend necessitates collective action on multiple fronts. Strengthening laws, imposing stricter regulations, and enforcing them effectively on social media platforms are imperative steps. Accountability for disseminating hatred should be a cornerstone of these efforts.
Equally crucial is the need for media literacy and education, especially among the younger populace. Educating individuals on responsible social media usage, nurturing critical thinking skills, and fostering empathy can serve as a powerful antidote to the spread of hate speech.
Moreover, nurturing inclusivity by promoting dialogue, understanding, and embracing diversity within society offers a promising pathway. Creating an environment that values and celebrates differences significantly curtails the space for hate speech to thrive.
The gravity of this situation calls for united efforts from all quarters – government, civil society, and social media platforms alike. Only through collaborative action can India aspire to address this pressing issue and pave the way for a more harmonious and tolerant society.

What do you think is the role of the media in making public opinion? How important is public image? How can the Catholic media create good news from a world full of bad news?
The media plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion by providing information, analysis, and perspectives on various issues. Its influence on public perception and decision-making is undeniable. The public image portrayed by the media significantly impacts how individuals and institutions are perceived.
Public opinion is essential, as it reflects the collective sentiments and attitudes of society towards different matters. A positive public image is crucial for individuals, organizations, and even religious institutions like the Catholic Church. It influences trust, credibility, and the ability to engage and connect with people.
Catholic media can create positive narratives amidst a world often dominated by negative news by focusing on the following:
Highlighting Goodness and Positivity: While the media often emphasizes negative events, Catholic media can spotlight stories of hope, kindness, charity, and resilience within communities, thereby counterbalancing the overwhelming negative news.
Promoting Values and Virtues: Emphasizing stories that exemplify Christian values, moral teachings, and acts of compassion can inspire and uplift audiences.
Offering Solutions and Inspirations: Catholic media can focus on solution-oriented journalism, sharing stories of innovative solutions to societal challenges, as well as profiles of individuals making a positive impact.
Sharing Faith and Spirituality: Offering content that strengthens faith, educates, and enlightens audiences about spirituality can provide a sense of hope and comfort in challenging times.
By consistently highlighting these aspects, Catholic media can help cultivate a culture of positivity, empathy, and social responsibility. It can contribute to a more balanced media landscape and play a role in shaping a society that values goodness and strives for the common good.

What is the world media defending for? Human dignity? Then it becomes a defence of human dignity and a fight against fascism. Isn’t politics, religion and culture threatened by fascism? How is your new appointment challenging you?
In the contemporary world, the media serves as a critical guardian of human dignity, standing against various threats, with fascism being one of the most significant. The media’s role extends beyond merely reporting news; it involves advocating for human rights, shedding light on injustices, and fostering an environment that upholds individual dignity.
The fight against fascism remains intertwined with safeguarding human dignity across multifaceted societal domains like politics, religion, and culture. Fascism poses a severe risk to foundational values such as freedom, equality, and human rights. It strives to stifle dissent, manipulate public opinion, and control information dissemination, thereby undermining the essence of human dignity.
My recent appointment as the Coordinator for ARC India in this context presents both a compelling opportunity and a substantial challenge. It necessitates a proactive and conscientious approach to media engagement, emphasizing the principles of ethical journalism, pursuit of truth, and resistance against influences that erode human dignity and social harmony.
Moreover, ARC provides an invaluable avenue to delve deeply into cutting-edge research. This offers a unique opportunity to engage with a global network of experts, scholars, and enthusiasts, fostering diverse perspectives aimed at addressing pressing contemporary societal challenges.
Participating in ARC’s conferences and events further augments this opportunity, offering a stimulating environment to exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, and collectively devise strategies to confront the intricate challenges faced by our societies.
Therefore, my role at ARC not only demands an in-depth understanding of the interconnections between religion, social communication, and contemporary societal issues but also presents an avenue to meaningfully contribute to the discourse on these critical topics. Through this, we aspire to drive positive change on a global scale by championing truth, justice, and human dignity through responsible media engagement and ethical practices.

How do you evaluate the catholic media in India, what according to you is their role in the Indian Church?
The Catholic media in India assumes a crucial role within the Indian Church, functioning as a dynamic platform for disseminating the Church’s doctrines, values, and endeavours to a diverse audience. Its purpose is to actively engage and connect with both the faithful and the broader society, considering media as a divine gifts with the potential to propagate the Gospel message and fulfill the Church’s mission.
The significance of media in communication within the Church was highlighted in the 2004 statement from the CBCI Plenary Assembly, emphasizing the Church’s responsibility to be a “Communicating Church.” This statement underscored the imperative of employing various media formats to effectively communicate the Church’s message, interact with society, and champion truth and justice. A recent revisit of this plan on the 60th anniversary of Inter Mirifica reaffirmed the commitment to adapting communication strategies to the evolving media landscape and embracing new technologies in a synodal manner.
The multifaceted role of Catholic media in India encompasses the dissemination of religious teachings, Church news, and perspectives, while actively promoting interfaith dialogue, social justice, and moral values. It serves as a potent tool for evangelization, providing spiritual guidance, nurturing faith, and fostering unity among the faithful.
Beyond these aspects, the Catholic media assumes a vital role in advocating for the marginalized, addressing societal issues, and championing a culture of peace and solidarity. Through its initiatives, it seeks to uphold human dignity, extend support to the needy, and raise awareness about critical societal concerns.
In essence, the Catholic media in India, driven by the teachings and values of the Church, aspires to be a conduit of truth, fostering a culture of dialogue, understanding, and empathy in the service of God and humanity.

Pope Francis sees the church as a conversation in his view of Synodality; how do the media help his new vision?
In Pope Francis’ vision of Synodality, where the Church is perceived as a “conversation,” the media plays a pivotal role in facilitating and amplifying this dialogue. The media serves as a bridge connecting the Church hierarchy with the faithful and wider society, enabling the exchange of ideas, opinions, and experiences.
Through various media platforms, including digital, print, and broadcasting, the Church can engage in open, transparent, and inclusive conversations. The media provides a means for sharing diverse voices, experiences, and perspectives within the Church, fostering a culture of listening and mutual understanding.
Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of active participation and collaboration among all members of the Church, seeking their insights and contributions. The media, through its ability to reach a broad audience, allows for the dissemination of information about synodal processes, discussions, and outcomes. It encourages the active involvement of the faithful, inviting their reflections, feedback, and suggestions on matters concerning the Church’s life and mission.
Moreover, the media helps in creating spaces for dialogue beyond geographical boundaries, facilitating communication among different cultures, languages, and communities within the Church. It allows for the sharing of stories, experiences, and best practices, fostering unity and solidarity among diverse groups.
By effectively utilizing the media, the Church can actualize Pope Francis’ vision of Synodality by embracing transparency, inclusivity, and openness to enable meaningful conversations, mutual discernment, and collaborative decision-making processes within the Church.

• * Research Centre for Religion and Social Communication