NEW DELHI— In a recent advertisement, the Congress party has launched a scathing critique of certain sections of the mainstream media, particularly targeting Republic TV’s chief, Arnab Goswami. The ad features a parody of Goswami’s primetime show, where he is depicted lavishing praise on the government while seated alongside two politicians. However, as the camera pulls back at the end of the “broadcast,” Goswami is revealed to be sitting on the lap of these politicians.
The ad concludes with a poignant voiceover declaring, “Agar media Godi mein baithi rahi, na samvidhan rahega, na loktantra” (If the media continues to remain subservient, there will be neither constitution nor democracy), reported Vartha Bharati.
Additionally, the ad humorously references a widely mocked BJP advertisement where a woman credits Prime Minister Narendra Modi for purportedly halting the Ukraine-Russia war. This jab at the media extends to its coverage of government actions, particularly regarding issues such as rising prices.
The anchor in the spoofed segment exaggerates claims about the government’s achievements, stating absurdities like the prices of fuel plummeting to the extent that they’re being used instead of water. Such satire underscores the perceived bias of certain media outlets towards the ruling party.
Moreover, the ad highlights a Newslaundry survey, which revealed a significant skew in the topics and stances covered by primetime debates. Goswami’s show, for instance, reportedly hosted a majority of debates favouring the government.