MAPPING THE MEDIA BIAS: GLOBAL ISLAMOPHOBIC TRENDS AND THEIR REFLECTION IN SOUTH ASIA

Islamophobia in the mass media is not a new phenomenon, however, this issue detonated across all media platforms following the events of 9/11. Since then, majority of western media outlets continue to present a constructed stereotypical identity of all Muslims without any regard to the diversity of Muslim world, including different origins, outlook and aspirations. The same trend is reflected in South Asia under the lens of the Hindutva ideology perpetuated by the Indian leadership. Media discourse on Islam reflects a repetitive pattern of rhetoric all centred on the idea of Muslims as violent, primitive beings devoid of individual thoughts. This type of media coverage, focused mostly on elements of conflict and discord is akin to War/Violence Journalism. In contrast, Peace Journalism utilises insights gained from the perspective of common men and focuses on balance, fairness and accuracy. Through a discourse analysis, this paper ascertains that the prevalent Islamophobic trends in mass media at the global and South Asian levels fall under the ambit of War Journalism whereas Peace Journalism offers alternative means of media representation of Muslims focused on inclusion, fairness and accuracy.