Mohd Irfan
Iltija Mufti, daughter of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, launched a sharp criticism of the media, accusing it of demonizing the Muslim community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a candid conversation on The Panchayat, a show hosted by Aaj Tak, senior journalist Rahul Kanwal, she expressed her deep frustration with what she described as unethical journalism aimed at tarnishing the image of Muslims.
The interview, set against the picturesque backdrop of Dal Lake, saw Iltija Mufti take the media to task for its role in amplifying anti-Muslim sentiment during one of the most challenging global health crises. She particularly lambasted sections of the media for labeling Muslims as “super-spreaders” of the deadly coronavirus, a narrative that she argued contributed to the deepening divide between communities.
“The media’s approach during the pandemic was not only irresponsible but also deeply disturbing. It painted an entire community as villains at a time when solidarity and compassion were most needed,” she said.
Referring to the media’s portrayal of Muslim gatherings as a primary cause of the virus spread, she remarked, “How much hatred do you intend to spread against Muslims? Do you realize the long-term damage this has caused to our society?”
Iltija Mufti did not mince words when expressing her discomfort with the media’s role in stoking communal tensions. “I had to think ten times before agreeing to this interview because I feel the media has been fueling the fire. You turned a health crisis into a communal issue, which is disgusting and utterly condemnable,” she said with visible anguish.
She went on to highlight how the Muslim community had been systematically marginalized and how media narratives had further entrenched this marginalization during the pandemic. “Muslims have already been ghettoized economically, socially, and politically. Yet, instead of focusing on unity and combating the virus together, the media chose to single out Muslims, further alienating them,” she argued.
Iltija Mufti pointed out the dangerous consequences of such media narratives, which not only fueled fear and anger but also led to increased discrimination against Muslims. “The portrayal of Muslims as super-spreaders led to economic boycotts, social ostracism, and even physical violence in many parts of the country. Is this what the media stands for?” she questioned.
She further accused the media of abdicating its responsibility as the fourth pillar of democracy, stating that it should have played a more constructive role in uniting the country during the pandemic. “Instead of being a voice of reason and compassion, the media chose to become a megaphone for hatred. It’s appalling,” she remarked.
Iltija Mufti’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among many in India who believe that the media has become increasingly biased and sensationalist, particularly when it comes to covering issues related to the Muslim community. She called for introspection within the media industry and urged journalists to uphold ethical standards rather than pander to divisive narratives.
In her closing remarks, Iltija emphasized the need for responsible journalism, especially in a country as diverse as India. “The media has a duty to report facts and bring people together, not sow seeds of division. It is high time for the media to reflect on its role and rectify the damage it has done,” she concluded.
The interview, which took place in the serene environment of Dal Lake, contrasted sharply with the harsh criticisms leveled against the media. Iltija Mufti’s pointed remarks are likely to spark further debate on the role of the press in communal issues and its responsibility in shaping public opinion during critical times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
