Is NDTV’s Ravish Kumar Really Deserving of the Ramon Magsaysay Award 2019 for Excellence in Journalism?

Malaysian leader Mahathir Mohamad's decision to award NDTV's Ravish Kumar the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2019 has sparked significant debate. Many argue that this accolade is a political move rather than a genuine recognition of journalistic excellence. Let's explore the political and ideological underpinnings of this award and its reception in the Indian context.

Political Motivations and Criticism

One of the most pointed criticisms of this award is that it is driven by a political agenda aimed at countering Prime Minister Modi and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Malaysian leader Mahathir Mohamad, often described as a senile and controversial figure, has a history of contentious actions and words. His decision to award Ravish Kumar for journalism is seen by many as an attempt to stoke tensions between India and Malaysia. Mahathir's move also comes at a time when he is sheltering Zakir Naik, a controversial Islamic preacher known for his extremist views. Naik's activities and his promotion of a conversion agenda are a point of concern to many in the Indian context.

International Context and Press Criticism

Adding to the controversy is Mahathir's public dissent regarding issues such as the abrogation of Article 370 and human rights in Kashmir, and his opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). These stances have raised questions about the appropriateness of such an award, given that such actions could be seen as supporting subversive agendas.

Judgment and Bias in Media

The decision to award NDTV's Ravish Kumar, who is described as a rabid anti-Modi TV journalist, is seen by many as a biased act. NDTV has been criticized for promoting content that aligns with the interests of so-called 'break-Hindu' forces, including radicals from various political and religious backgrounds.

Ravish Kumar and NDTV are seen as a part of a larger narrative that includes Marxists, predatory Islamic and Christian groups, foreign media, and corrupt opposition parties. These entities work together to undermine the BJP, which is seen as the only party committed to preserving and protecting the Hindu heritage and interests in a land that has been invaded and occupied by Muslim conquests followed by Christian colonialists.

Conclusion: Nationalism and Ideological Tensions

Ultimately, many view the Ramon Magsaysay Award as a political tool to provide publicity and financial support to dissenters in other countries. Ravish Kumar, as part of NDTV, is seen as catering to this anti-national narrative.

Thus, the debate over whether NDTV’s Ravish Kumar deserved the Ramon Magsaysay Award is not just about journalism; it is deeply entwined with political and ideological tensions between India and Malaysia, as well as the broader issue of protecting national interests from internal and external forces.