Today, we are thrilled to host Abhinandan Sekhri, a decorated journalist and the CEO and co-founder of @newslaundry Join us as we embark on a deep dive into a multitude of critical and engaging topics that are shaping the media landscape in India today.

2024 Indian Election Coverage: Abhinandan provides an insider’s look at how NewsLaundry is gearing up for the coverage of the 2024 elections. We discuss the unique challenges the team faces, including logistical hurdles and the extreme summer heat, as well as the political pressures that come with election reporting.

Challenges for Female Reporters: We explore the cultural norms and challenges that female reporters encounter in India. Abhinandan compares the experiences of female journalists in urban cities versus rural areas, highlighting the stark differences and ongoing struggles.

Gender Discrimination: Delving deeper into gender discrimination, we discuss how it manifests differently in urban and rural India, and the impact it has on women’s opportunities and freedoms.

NewsLaundry’s Hiring Process: Abhinandan sheds light on the hiring process at NewsLaundry, explaining the qualities he values in reporters and the importance of integrity and passion for truth in journalism.

Government Attitudes Towards Media in 2024: We examine whether there has been a shift in the Indian government’s attitude towards the media and the implications for journalistic freedom and independence.

Income Tax Notices: Abhinandan shares his personal experiences with receiving income tax notices from the government, discussing the implications of taking bold stances and how Guru Gobind Singh serves as a source of motivation for him.

Impact of the Internet on Media: We discuss the transformative effect of the internet on media freedom and public discourse. Are people less afraid of power now? How has the internet empowered voices and facilitated freedom of speech?

Media Regulation: The conversation turns to media regulation and the necessity of restricting voices with facts. We debate the balance between freedom of expression and the need for factual accuracy.

Legacy Media vs. Social Media: Abhinandan contrasts the traditional legacy media with the rise of social media, discussing how the pursuit of higher viewership has affected the quality of journalism.

Relevance of TV: Is television becoming irrelevant in the digital age? We explore the current and future role of TV in the media landscape.

Opinion vs. Facts: How much emphasis does NewsLaundry place on fact-checking? Abhinandan explains the costs and processes involved in ensuring accuracy and the importance of distinguishing between opinion and factual reporting.

Content Structure: An in-depth look at NewsLaundry’s content structure, focusing on the balance between opinion pieces and fact-based stories, and the rigorous fact-checking processes involved.

Financial Challenges in Fact-Checking: The financial limitations that come with thorough fact-checking are discussed, including instances where stories had to be abandoned due to budget constraints.

Reporter Safety: Abhinandan talks about the risks involved in reporting and the measures NewsLaundry takes to ensure the safety of their reporters in the field.

Device Security: The paranoia surrounding government surveillance of journalistic devices is real. Abhinandan shares his thoughts on device security and the extent of government scrutiny.

Interviewing Controversial Figures: The difficulties and pressures associated with interviewing controversial figures in India are explored, shedding light on the challenges faced by reporters.

Daily Challenges as a Reporter: Abhinandan reflects on his motivation to face daily challenges in journalism, the pressures of the job, and the resilience required to stay committed to the truth.

Ultimate Purpose of NewsLaundry: We conclude with a discussion on NewsLaundry’s core mission and ultimate purpose, emphasizing their commitment to independent and fearless journalism.

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