Volume-4 Issue-4, June 2025 – Indian Journal of Mass Communication and Journalism (IJMCJ)

D112704040625

IJMCJ Journal — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:43:38 +0000

The Indian Journal of Mass Communication and Journalism (IJMCJ) has ISSN 2583-0651 (online), an open-access, peer-reviewed, periodical quarterly international journal, which is published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP) in March, June, September and December. The journal aims to publish high-quality peer–reviewed original articles in the area of Mass Communication and Journalism that covers Advertising, Journalism, Public Relations, Newspaper, Magazine, Book Publishing, Radio, Television, Film, Media Studies, Media Influence, Media Law, Media Management, Media Economics, Communication Studies, Social Science, Citizen Journalism, Creative Nonfiction, Journalism Ethics and Standards, Journalism Genres, Non-Profit Journalism, Objectivity (Journalism), Reporters Without Borders, Sensor Journalism, Advocacy Journalism, Broadcasting, Corporate Media, Journalistic Professionalism, Media Balance, Media bias Peace Journalism, Social Dynamics, Political Discussion, Political Criticism, Political Commentary, Political Communication and Health Communication. #Advertising #Journalism #Public Relations #Newspaper #Magazine #Book Publishing #Radio #Television #Film #Media Studies #Media Influence #Media Law #Media Management #Media Economics #Communication Studies #Social Science #Citizen Journalism #Creative Nonfiction #Journalism Ethics and Standards #Journalism Genres #Non-Profit Journalism #Objectivity (Journalism) #Reporters Without Borders #Sensor Journalism #Advocacy Journalism #Broadcasting #Corporate Media #Journalistic Professionalism #Media Balance #Media bias Peace Journalism #Social Dynamics #Political Discussion #Political Criticism #Political Commentary #Political Communication #Health Communication #PhD ademic #Scopus #SCI #LatticeScience #Springer, #ScienceDirect #IEEE #Mendeley #Research #Scholarship #UGC #SSRN #LatticeScience #ESCI #Science #Journal #Conference #SSRN #PubLons #PhD #Academic #Scopus #SCI #LatticeScience #Springer, #ScienceDirect #IEEE #Mendeley #Research #Scholarship #UGC #SSRN #LatticeScience #ESCI #Science #Journal #Conference #SSRN #PubLons

Judicial Discretion and the Death Penalty: Revisiting Bachan Singh in the Context of India and the U.S.
Monika Priyadarshini¹, Sridevi S.²

¹Monika Priyadarshini, Department of Law, RV University, Bangalore (Karnataka), India.

²Sridevi S, Department of Law, RV University, Bangalore (Karnataka), India.

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© The Authors. Published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP). This is an open-access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)

Abstract: Judicial discretion in death penalty adjudication is inextricably linked with constitutional mandates, moral challenges, and international human rights norms. This study aims to undertake a critical analysis of the path of such discretion in the Indian legal tradition, particularly in the context of the jurisprudential shift indicated by Bachan Singh v. State of Punjab (1980), which articulated the “rarest of rare” doctrine as a bulwark against arbitrary capital punishment. While the said judgment sought to establish principled checks, subsequent judicial perceptions have revealed contradictions, demonstrating the continuity of tension between normative principles and real adjudication. Employing a doctrinal research methodology, the study examines the theoretical underpinnings and functional efficacy of the Bachan Singh model. It supplements it with an empirical review of trial court sentencing practices. It also identifies procedural deficits that impede the doctrine’s consistent application, such as incoherent sentencing and neglecting to consider extenuating factors appropriately. Moreover, with a comparative analysis of the capital sentencing system in the United States characterized by statutory limitations and jury participation—the study draws implications regarding the mechanisms through which controlled discretion can enhance transparency and reduce arbitrariness This paper finally calls for reviewing India’s sentencing policy to include greater judicial accountability, implementation consistency, and compatibility with prevailing human rights standards. This paper contends that reforms are necessary to preserve the constitutional doctrine of substantive due process in capital cases.

Keywords: Bachan Singh, Comparative Criminal Law, Death Penalty Jurisprudence, Judicial Discretion.
Scope of the Article: Media Law

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D112604040625

IJMCJ Journal — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:35:59 +0000

Evaluating the Impact of Fake News on Intolerance Among Socio-Economic Classes 3 & 4
Krishna Mohan Sharma

Dr. Krishna Mohan Sharma, Department of Mass Communication, Editor- Bharat Express, Noida (Uttar Pradesh), India

Abstract: The proliferation of fake news in the social media era has significant consequences for individuals, society, and democratic processes. Research has highlighted the detrimental effects of fake news on various aspects of society, including public opinion, political discourse, and individual decisionmaking. One consequence of fake news is the erosion of public trust in media and institutions. The finding reveals that fake news spreads much faster than credible information. This is a dangerous finding because, at best, fake news can spread false hope, and at worst, it can flare hatred and incite violence. A total of 100 cases of violations of religious hate speech were identified from the media studied in this research between 2022 and 2023. Regarding the religion involved in the cases, the Islamic denomination was predominant (32%), followed by Hindus (28%) and Catholicism (20%). Hate speech and incitement to violence were the most common topics (30%), although acts of discrimination and rejection (26%) and material damage or attacks on places of worship (19%) were also reported. The finding suggests that higher education students do not want to send fake news when they broadcast information. The finding also reveals that higher education students belong to many groups, and this does not affect the number of fake news stories because students conduct advanced research on the news and verify if it has a reliable source. Findings suggest that fake news and disinformation can subtly influence emotions and attitudes, potentially leading to behavioural consequences. The findings of the studies show that economic inequality is a potent enhancer of intolerance, inducing the escalation of out-group discrimination even without the presence of new intolerant mutants. Tolerance is positively associated with national-level economic prosperity, and this relationship is stronger for higher-income earners than for those with lower incomes. Individuals with job market insecurity and lower economic status (i.e., low income) are more likely to be more intolerant of people with different faiths. Once intolerance begins to act, it is almost unstoppable in the presence of inequality. The relationship between socioeconomic status, Misinformation, and intolerance is significant, as individuals from lower SES backgrounds are often at a higher risk of engaging in violent behaviour due to factors like poverty, lack of access to education, and limited economic opportunities. Lower family incomes of 30-60 K are more vulnerable to intolerance. Studies have shown a potential link between lower socioeconomic status (SES) and higher levels of intolerance, suggesting that individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may be more likely to exhibit intolerance towards others, particularly when facing economic hardship or perceived threats from different groups; Digital media has also made it easier to spread misinformation that is many a times unverifiable. While name-calling, fake news, and other forms of low-level discourse and unethical political communication have always existed, social media has undoubtedly exacerbated these problems to a new level. The relationship between socioeconomic status, Misinformation, and intolerance is significant, as individuals from lower SES backgrounds are often at a higher risk of engaging in violent behaviour due to factors like poverty, lack of access to education, and limited economic opportunities.

Keywords: Social Media, Individuals, Society, Public Opinion, Political Discourse, Hate Speech.
Scope of the Article: Emerging Trends in Journalism

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D112104040625

IJMCJ Journal — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:29:19 +0000

Echo Chambers and Polarization: The Role of Social Networks in Shaping Beliefs in India
Sumana Mitra¹, Abhishek Das²

¹Sumana Mitra, Research Scholar, Department of Adult, Continuing Education & Extension, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, (West Bengal), India.

²Prof. (Dr.) Abhishek Das, Assistant Professor of Adult, Continuing Education & Extension, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, (West Bengal), India.

Abstract: The rise of social networks has significantly influenced public discourse, contributing to the formation of echo chambers that reinforce ideological divisions. This study examines the role of social networks in shaping political and social beliefs in India. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research integrates quantitative surveys with qualitative discourse analysis to assess the extent of polarization. Agendasetting theory and social identity theory provide the theoretical foundation for understanding how online communities amplify biases. The findings highlight how algorithmic curation, selective exposure, and group identity reinforce beliefs. The study proposes policy interventions to mitigate Polarization while fostering inclusive dialogue.

Keywords: Echo Chambers, Polarization, Social Networks, Belief Formation, India.
Scope of the Article: Emerging Trends in Journalism

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C116704030325

IJMCJ Journal — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:18:56 +0000

Role of ‘Unexplored Bastar’ in Strengthening the Socioeconomic Status of Tribal Communities: A Case Study Approach
Rajkumar Das¹, Vivek Nema²

¹Rajkumar Das, Scholar, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, IGNTU, Amarkantak (M.P.) India.

²Vivek Nema, Scholar, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication IGNTU, Amarkantak (M.P.) India.

Abstract: A tribal community, an indigenous or aboriginal group, consists of people with common ancestry, cultural heritage, and often traditional lifestyles. These communities are distinguished by their unique social, linguistic, and cultural practices, setting them apart from mainstream society. Tribes typically have social structures, governance, and belief systems passed down through generations. In India, the socioeconomic status of tribal communities is influenced by historical marginalisation, geographic isolation, and contemporary challenges. These groups have historically faced discrimination, forced displacement, and exploitation, leading to a persistent socioeconomic gap. Their struggles are exacerbated by limited access to quality education, inadequate healthcare, and scarce employment opportunities. Traditional livelihoods, often tied to agriculture and forest-based activities, are becoming increasingly unsustainable due to environmental changes and modernisation. Unexplored Bastar is a travel startup based on a social entrepreneurship model in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. It focuses on sustainable tourism through a community-based approach, promoting the natural and historical sites of Bastar, as well as its rich tribal culture, both within India and internationally. Currently, Unexplored Bastar positively impacts the lives of over 200 tribal youth in Bastar. APS has trained around 240 local tribal individuals in the tourism and hospitality sector to improve their employment prospects, including hosting tourists in their homes, serving as local guides, and selling handicrafts to visitors. These local communities are the primary service providers for Unexplored Bastar, which implements various grassroots innovations. They organize themselves into Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Chitrakote, Tirtha, Dantewada, Palnaar, Phoolpad, Dholkal, and Barsoor. Consequently, Unexplored Bastar has created numerous sustainable employment opportunities for local tribal youth. This research paper examines the socioeconomic implications of the ‘Unexplored Bastar’ on the tribal community by analysing various activities and initiatives undertaken by the aforementioned independent organisation. Additionally, this case study will shed light on the future challenges and opportunities for growth and fostering tribal communities in various regions.

Keywords: Tribal Community, Socioeconomic Development, Unexplored Bastar, Eco-Tourism.
Scope of the Article: Social Science

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C112004030325

IJMCJ Journal — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:11:11 +0000

Framing of Environmental News through Constructive Journalism in the Indian Context
Lekshmi Priya Sanal¹, I. Arul Aram²

¹Lekshmi Priya Sanal, Department of Media Sciences, Anna University, Chennai (Tamil Nadu), India.

²Prof. I Arul Aram, Department of Media Sciences, Anna University, Chennai (Tamil Nadu), India.

Abstract: Mainstream media often deem environmental news non-newsworthy owing to the lack of audience interest. This could be attributed to the lackadaisical treatment that environmental issues receive, which either presents these in an esoteric manner beyond audience comprehension or through non-engaging coverage to keep up with the bandwagon. The internet access boom has helped environmental groups and non-government organisations present and advocate for various environmental issues, including climate change. It would hold great significance for environmental communication research to study how these issues are being explored and the real-time impact and mobilisation of the audience. Constructive journalism is a growing field that addresses various social issues, including environmental concerns, through the lens of positive psychology and solution-based approaches. Its proliferation across new media platforms makes the scope of studying environmental issues more extensive. This study employs frame analysis to examine the frames employed in constructive environmental stories by media platforms, including The Better India and Mongabay India. A total of 285 stories between 2021 and 2022 were analysed using Nambiar’s typology of environmental frames, and it was found that constructive news elements in environmental stories may do well towards raising environmental consciousness among the audience and call to action.

Keywords: Constructive Journalism, Environmental Journalism, New Media, Positive Psychology, Solutions.
Scope of the Article: Emerging Trends in Journalism

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C111504030325

IJMCJ Journal — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:04:41 +0000

The Era of Smartphone Journalism: A Shift in Media Dynamics
Sanjay Kumar Bharti¹, Narmadesh Chandra Pathak², Amit Kumar³

¹Sanjay Kumar Bharti, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Srinath University Jamshedpur, Jamshedpur (Jharkhand), India.

²Narmadesh Chandra Pathak, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Srinath University Jamshedpur, Jamshedpur (Jharkhand), India.

³Amit Kumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Srinath University Jamshedpur, Jamshedpur (Jharkhand), India.

Abstract: Smartphones have revolutionized journalism, rendering traditional tools such as OB vans and Live U machines obsolete. This paper examines the transformation within the media industry, highlighting the growing reliance on smartphones for news gathering, production, and broadcasting. With over 647.53 million smartphone users in India, leading Indian news channels, such as Aaj Tak, Times Now, and News18, have adopted smartphone journalism, utilising platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to reach a broader audience. This study explores the impact of this shift on traditional journalism practices, the advantages and challenges posed by mobile journalism, and its implications for the future of the news industry.

Keywords: Revolutionized Journalism, Rendering Traditional, Media Industry.
Scope of the Article: Television Media

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Volume-4 Issue-4, June 2025 – Indian Journal of Mass Communication and Journalism (IJMCJ)

D112704040625

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