Social media blurs line between truth and falsehood: Sr journalist Krishna Rao

Senior journalist A Krishna Rao, speaking at the Janadharmadu MS Acharya 7th Memorial Lecture at Kakatiya University, warned that social media has blurred the line between truth and falsehood, fuelling misinformation. He emphasised neutrality in journalism, the importance of language, and the role of literature as society’s response.

Hanamkonda: The line between truth and falsehood has blurred due to the influence of social media, increasing the spread of misinformation, senior journalist A Krishna Rao said.

Delivering the ‘Janadharmadu MS Acharya 7th Memorial Lecture’ at Kakatiya University on Friday on “Shifting Standards” in Journalism and Literature, he said news should carry reality rather than colour or bias, and journalists must act with neutrality.

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Rao stressed that a journalist’s primary commitment should be to journalism, adding that understanding society and mastery of language were essential. He noted that literature was society’s response and that Indian epics represented cultural values, not merely religious texts. Indian scriptures, he said, encouraged questioning, and newspapers remained vital for democracy. He urged youth to question discrimination and misuse of religion.

Rao praised MS Acharya’s contribution to Telugu journalism, noting that Janadharma and Warangal Vani shaped many journalists, and magazines run by Acharya played key roles in the freedom struggle, anti-Nizam movement and establishment of institutions including Kakatiya University.

Vice Chancellor Prof. K Pratap Reddy said Acharya upheld journalistic responsibilities even in difficult times, while Registrar Prof. V Ramachandram introduced Rao. Retired Prof. M Rajagopala Chari and former CIC M Sridharacharyulu explained the Trust’s activities, and KU PRO Dr. Prithvi Raju coordinated the event.