A Qualitative Study of Indian Media's Diplomatic Strategies to Suppress Kashmir Issues in International Coverage

Abstract

The Indian media employs sophisticated diplomatic techniques to downplay the Kashmir concerns in international coverage, aiming to influence both domestic and global opinions of the region. This technique has developed and changed over time, in response to wider political, social, and technical shifts. In order to comprehend the subtleties of this strategy, it is crucial to analyses the diverse techniques utilized by the Indian media, the impact of government involvement, and the consequences of these practices on global perceptions and local discussions (Rege, 2023). The Indian media's fundamental approach revolves around portraying Kashmir primarily as a security concern. This framing entails the regular utilization of phrases such as "terrorism," "militancy," and "national security." The media's portrayal of Kashmir as a security issu[1]e accords with the government's perspective, framing the Indian government's actions as essential for upholding national unity and stability. This narrative restricts the opportunity for other viewpoints, especially those who emphasize the political, human rights, and socio-economic aspects of the Kashmir crisis (Li, 2022). The revocation of Article 370 in August 2019 stands as a crucial illustration of this approach. The Indian media coverage of this event mostly portrayed it as a momentous step towards the assimilation of Kashmir into India. The media focused on the potential advantages of development and economic integration, while mainly disregarding or minimizing opposing viewpoints from within Kashmir. The phenomenon of selective reporting was observed in multiple media formats, such as newspapers, television news, and digital platforms. Television debates frequently included pundits who supported the administration, so strengthening the government's favorable portrayal and downplaying conversations regarding human rights abuses and political consequences (McGarr, 2021).