'Indiscriminate use of sting ops can have disastrous effect on democracy'

Describing sting operation as an “effective weapon” in the hands of media, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat on Friday highlighted the need for its judicious use in the interest of the state, saying that indiscriminate use can have “disastrous” effect on democracy. 

“Sting is an effective weapon in the hands of <g data-gr-id="25">mediapersons</g>. But it becomes lethal if media deliberately dances on the tune of unprincipled elements. Media becomes a puppet in the hands of others. That is perhaps the reason why the Supreme Court has given exclusive permission to media to conduct sting operations. Now, the onus is on the fourth estate (journalists) to see if the Apex Court’s orders are being followed while a sting operation is being carried out,” said Rawat while addressing a programme organised by a private channel on Friday. 

He added: “Sting operations are meant for public interest and not to damage the image of others. 

This is <g data-gr-id="30">dangerous</g> situation for the democracy.”  

“If the Apex Court’s directives are violated in a sting operation, then the media is running the risk of being misused by vested interests which can have disastrous consequences for a democracy,” he added. 

Rawat said there should be no government interference in media’s work. However, he simultaneously emphasised on the importance of ethical and factual journalism.

Director General (DG) of Information Vinod Sharma  was also present. 

He said: “Media plays a pivotal role in the image building of any state. The state government has implemented many public welfare schemes and media can disseminate this information to public. The reconstruction and rehabilitation work in disaster-hit Kedarnath was appreciated by all and the credit goes to media in highlighting lesser known facts.