One of the few reasons for one to read "The Asian Age" was the fact that M J Akbar was its Editor-in-Chief. M J Akbar is one of the few genuine columnists who travel considerably and have many contacts around the world. His weekly column "Byline" is one good reason, or in my case -- probably, the only reason -- to read the Asian Age.
During our college years, we've always had this debate about freedom of speech and whether the media was free. I've always maintained that freedom of speech is nothing more than a fallacy. Huge media conglomerates all over the world decide what goes out as news to the public. A careful consideration of all news items in most news carriers -- be it websites or newspapers -- reveals that virtually every article has some commercial interest behind it.
In this age of advertorials, good columnists are a rare breed. Its a pity that someone of the caliber of M J Akbar, whose columns are appreciated even by his one time mentor Prof. P K Ravindranath, had to be shunted out so unceremoniously. It shows that finally... it all boils down to the economy... who cares if it translates into sheer prostitution of journalism!
The rumour doing the rounds is that it was his byline "Double Play" that cost him his job. The smart guys in the Congress probably realized that the theory of E=MC2 proposed by M J Akbar in his byline might cost them dearly in the forthcoming elections. On one hand, this shows the power of true journalism, and on the other hand, it also proves the fact that the "powers that be" do have the final word.
To sum up my feelings I'd like to quote M J Akbar verbatim. On his blog, he says "For reasons that need not detain us, I must say farewell. I was under the impression that I might have been able to do so with more grace. But judging from this morning edition of our paper, it seems I might have overstayed my welcome… We may not have been the biggest, but we held our head high because there was one nonnegotiable asset in our family: we could not be bought. We were independent. We were free. We held our head high. Never let your head stoop, not as long as you are a journalist."
He is one of the few people who are keeping the spirit of journalism alive! Hats off!
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2 comments:
These are indeed strange times for journalism. Good and able editors are being shown the door.
Akbar was one of last shining lamps, someone who had an unparalleled class.
And while we're at it, you may also want to read Aakar Patel's (Former Editor, Mid-day) reminisces of working with Akbar and what it was working at the TAA. Gave me some really good insights into the man. Please pardon the couple expletives used, though.
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