Is Telangana Congress MLA Right to Criticize CM’s Remarks on Social Media Journalists?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Respect for social media is essential in modern journalism.
- The conflict highlights the tension between traditional and digital media.
- Political leaders must be accountable for their public statements.
- Healthy discourse should be encouraged among all types of journalists.
- Democratic processes in leadership selection are crucial for party integrity.
Hyderabad, Aug 4 (NationPress) Senior Congress MLA Komatireddy Raj Gopal Reddy has expressed his discontent with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy over his recent comments directed at social media journalists. In a direct response posted on social media, Raj Gopal Reddy highlighted the necessity for leaders to honor social media, particularly when it functions with a sense of social responsibility.
The MLA from Munugode asserted that authorities should appreciate social media's role in serving the public, rather than belittling it, which he deems unjustifiable.
“Social media has been diligently working to meet the aspirations of the people of Telangana from the outset. I will always stand by the committed social media journalists,” stated the MLA.
“Encouraging mainstream media to marginalize social media journalists is simply a clear strategy to divide and control. The people of Telangana will not accept such devious tactics,” added Raj Gopal Reddy, who is the sibling of Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy.
During an event held on August 1, the Chief Minister mentioned that he feels like “slapping” young journalists, especially those from digital and social media, for their alleged arrogance and disrespect towards seasoned journalists.
At the 10th anniversary celebration of Telugu daily ‘Nava Telangana’, Revanth Reddy raised concerns regarding the misuse of social media masquerading as journalism. He commented that self-declared social media journalists often attend press conferences lacking a grasp of fundamental journalistic ethics.
“The self-proclaimed young journalists arrive half an hour early to my press events and take the front seats. They look at me as if questioning why I’m not greeting them with a namaste or bowing my head, acknowledging their perceived superiority. They act as though they possess all the knowledge, despite lacking basic understanding of journalism. At times, I feel like getting down and repeatedly slapping them,” he remarked.
Raj Gopal Reddy, known for his critical stance towards the Chief Minister, previously voiced his dissatisfaction after Revanth Reddy claimed he would serve as Chief Minister for the next decade.
The MLA pointed out that Revanth Reddy’s assertion contradicts the principles of the Congress Party. “In a national party like Congress, the appointment of the Chief Minister is conducted democratically, following the guidelines of the high command. Dedicated Congress leaders and members will not stand for efforts to transform Telangana Congress into a personal fiefdom,” he stated.