Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy ignited a heated debate when he slammed self-proclaimed journalists who run YouTube channels without credentials, recently. His bold remarks exposed deep concerns about fake media identities, unregulated digital journalism, and the government’s failure to implement key regulatory frameworks.
During a recent public event, Revanth Reddy accused individuals of “masquerading as journalists” simply by holding microphones and claiming media status on digital platforms. He declared that such people should be “slapped” and “paraded” if they continue defaming public figures, including his own family.
Free speech advocates and opposition leaders from the BJP condemned his comments, calling them authoritarian and reminiscent of the Emergency era. However, many veteran journalists and media experts backed Reddy’s frustration, highlighting the unchecked spread of fake journalism in Telangana.
G.O. 239: A Forgotten Safeguard
The core of the problem lies in G.O. Ms. No. 239, a government order Telangana issued in 2016. The order defined eligibility for media accreditation and aimed to protect journalistic integrity by weeding out imposters. It empowered the authorities to ensure only genuine journalists with a valid professional record received official press credentials.
Yet, the government has failed to enforce this order. With no digital verification system or routine monitoring in place, hundreds of unauthorized individuals across the state issue themselves “press” IDs, display “PRESS” stickers on vehicles, and run unregistered YouTube channels — all while claiming journalistic protection.
Digital Journalism: Democratization or Danger?
While digital platforms have democratized the flow of information, they have also blurred the boundaries between journalism, activism, and sensationalism. Many so-called “journalists”:
- Operate without any editorial standards,
- Avoid registration under a legal media entity,
- Disregard Press Council norms and IT regulations,
- And exploit their fake media identity for intimidation, extortion, or political gain.
Government officials and genuine journalists frequently report such misuse, particularly in rural Telangana, where fake reporters pressure local authorities, politicians, and business owners.
Is Revanth’s Outburst Justified?
Revanth Reddy’s aggressive language stirred controversy, but his underlying concern reflects a legitimate governance issue. Without enforcing G.O. 239 or creating a mechanism to vet digital journalists, the government continues to allow fake media operators to damage the credibility of the press.
Observers argue that if the state had strictly implemented G.O. 239, many of the individuals drawing the CM’s ire wouldn’t have gained media access or public influence.
Telangana Must Act Now
The Telangana Government must now act decisively on two fronts:
- Reaffirm its commitment to protecting legitimate media voices and free speech;
- Immediately enforce and possibly update G.O. 239 to include digital platforms, YouTube channels, and online-only reporters.
If the government ignores this issue, fake journalism will continue to thrive, public trust in media will further erode, and confrontations between leaders and media figures will intensify. Despite the backlash, Revanth Reddy’s remarks may serve as the much-needed wake-up call Telangana must heed.
