In a sharp rebuke, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M) has accused major media outlets of deliberately distorting coverage of recent protests in Kerala. The party claims that what were essentially demonstrations against communal forces have been sensationalized as religious clashes to serve ulterior motives.
The controversy erupted amid heightened tensions in the state, where opposition to certain communal activities drew large crowds. CPI(M) leaders argue that media narratives painted these events as faith-based violence, ignoring the political undercurrents. ‘This is a classic case of fake news designed to polarize society,’ stated a senior party spokesperson during a press briefing in Thiruvananthapuram.
Kerala’s political landscape has long been a battleground for ideological clashes, with the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) facing accusations from both the right-wing BJP and centrist Congress. CPI(M) alleges that biased reporting amplifies the BJP’s narrative, portraying Hindu-Muslim divides where none exist. Party general secretary Sitaram Yechury echoed these sentiments, calling for ethical journalism standards.
Eyewitness accounts from the protests describe orderly gatherings focused on secular issues like land rights and economic disparities, not religious animosity. Yet, television channels and online portals ran headlines screaming ‘religious riots,’ complete with looped footage of minor scuffles. CPI(M) has demanded retractions and apologies, threatening legal action against ‘mischievous’ outlets.
This isn’t the first time Kerala media has come under fire. Last year, similar accusations flew during coverage of student protests and labor strikes. Critics within the party point to corporate ownership of media houses as the root cause, aligning with national trends where editorial independence wanes.
As elections loom, the stakes are high. CPI(M) vows to counter this ‘propaganda war’ through grassroots campaigns and social media. Political analysts warn that such distortions could erode public trust in institutions, deepening societal rifts in India’s southern bastion of progressive politics.
The party has also appealed to the Press Council of India to investigate, urging a return to factual reporting. For now, Kerala’s streets remain calm, but the war of words rages on, highlighting the fragile line between journalism and activism.