In the last few weeks, the issue of the alleged rape of a nun has been asubject of media attention, particularly in the local media. But if we look athow a section of the media has launched a seemingly motivated campaign vilifyingthe alleged victims, it is a matter of serious concern. While the role of themedia in the larger context of the ongoing crisis in Kandhamal needs to beexamined, I am responding here to the issue of a nun's rape, which one newspaperhas described as the 'main issue'.
In a local Oriya daily, Dharitri, which is owned and edited by TathagathaSatpathy, a sitting MP (BJD) from Orissa, a number of articles have beenpublished questioning the veracity of the allegation of rape. The Samaj,another Oriya daily, has been carrying reports arguing that the allegation ofrape is a blatant lie. No doubt, it is the duty and right of the press to bringout all facts relevant to a particular issue if there is sufficientreason/evidence to believe that it is true and its publication will be forpublic good. This is the standard norm of professionalism for the press as setby the Press Council of India.