In a recent appearance at a media agency, Sam Stevenson, assistant editor at UK's Daily Express, shed light on what he perceives as prevailing misconceptions about India in Europe and the West.
Stevenson expressed concern over the negative narratives being circulated about India in the media, attributing them to biassed reporting.
During his visit to India, Stevenson emphasised the importance of firsthand experiences in understanding the country's reality. He encouraged people to visit India, interact with locals, and witness the diversity and inclusivity firsthand, challenging the simplistic narratives perpetuated by the media.
Stevenson also called for a shift towards highlighting India's successes and potential, advocating for a more positive portrayal of the country. He urged the media to move away from negative narratives and instead focus on telling the true stories of India's progress and development.
Addressing concerns about religious dynamics in India, Stevenson highlighted the country's acceptance of all cultures and religions. He disputed claims of religious divisions, citing his observations of communal harmony at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's campaign rallies.
Stevenson underscored the responsibility of the media in presenting a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of India. He called for an end to India bashing and urged for a more informed and nuanced understanding of the country's complexities.
Stevenson reaffirmed his commitment to journalistic integrity and factual reporting, vowing to challenge existing narratives and bring forth the reality of India's pluralistic society to the forefront of British media coverage.