How newspapers like the Times of India get their reporters to toe the line
Once upon a time, journalists were highly respected and regarded, because they could be trusted to tell the truth.
Today, newspapers are run as for-profit businesses, characterised by a hire and fire culture.
Publishers treat journalists as widgets and language hacks, who can be manipulated as desired, because there is so much competition for the job.
Reporters are insecure in the careers, and have sold out. They will never argue a questionable editorial decision, and those with a backbone don’t last for long.
Silence and unquestioning obedience to their bosses are the hallmarks of the frightened reporters, who do not have the guts to speak up, because they can’t afford to risk their jobs.
Editorial integrity has become a joke, and the advertising department calls the shots, because they are a source of revenue, while reporters are considered to be a cost.
Newspaper offices have become a Dog eat Dog world, where colleagues compete against each other, in order to create ‘scoops’ and attract eyeballs.
The focus is now on pandering to advertisers rather than telling the truth.