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Journalism of Courage
Films and ads are often sexist. But they must be corrected by public opinion,not the Iamp;B ministry
The information and broadcasting ministry has decided to do its bit for women,by encouraging better standards in the media and making sure that no sexist content slips through. It is now corralling all the professional and regulatory bodies in film,television and advertising to cooperate in this agenda. These bodies,including the Central Board of Film Certification,the Advertising Standards Council of India,the News Broadcasters Association and the Indian Broadcasters Foundation,have reportedly been asked to review their own principles,to balance free expression with a regard for aesthetics and sensibility.
It is refreshing that gender politics now figures in the public discourse in India whether it is about the threats to womens independence and safety or the way they are represented in popular music and entertainment. These debates have been held off too long,or considered trivial,and their airing is necessary. But at the same time,we must be wary of letting this moment be thoughtlessly captured. The Iamp;B ministry would be better off drawing attention to sexism in media and entertainment,and working with public opinion,rather than imposing its own ideas on these industries.
