Thu Feb 05 17:26:17 UTC 2026: # Vijayan Criticizes Media’s Shift from Societal Rebuilding to Profit-Driven Agendas

The Story:
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has publicly criticized the current state of media, arguing that it has strayed from the ideals of journalistic pioneers like Swadeshabhimani Ramakrishna Pillai and Kesari Balakrishna Pillai, who envisioned journalism as a tool for societal betterment. Speaking at the 2024 Swadeshabhimani-Kesari award ceremony in Thiruvananthapuram on February 5, 2026, Vijayan expressed concern over the decline in values due to the media’s increasing focus on profit and the encouragement of regressive customs.

Key Points:

  • Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that the media is moving away from the traditions of societal rebuilding.
  • He observed a decline in values due to the increasing haste to make profits.
  • The Chief Minister alleged that the media is attacking the government without merit and often fails to report the truth even after accusations are proven false.
  • The State government is honoring journalists, including critics, emphasizing that merit alone should be the basis for awards.
  • Malayinkeezhu Gopalakrishnan received the Swadeshabhimani-Kesari award, recognized for his focus on facts and insistence that news should not be rumours.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Chief Minister’s criticism highlights a growing tension between the government and the media in Kerala.
  • The focus on honoring journalists, even critics, suggests a deliberate attempt to showcase the government’s commitment to free press, despite the criticisms leveled.
  • The speech underscores concerns about the impact of globalization and corporate interests on media integrity.
  • The award to Malayinkeezhu Gopalakrishnan signals a desire to promote fact-based journalism.

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