2 weeks ago
R Ashoka Alleges Bias in Karnataka Assembly Media Coverage
R Ashoka is an opposition leader in the Assembly.
He says government officials are not sharing enough pictures and videos of opposition members with journalists.
He believes ruling-party leaders are receiving more publicity.
Ashoka asked the Assembly Speaker to make sure all members are treated equally.
He said fair media coverage helps people learn what happens in the Assembly.
The monsoon session began on August 13.
The ruling Congress and opposition BJP have been arguing during the session.
Ashoka warned that he might seek action against officials if the issue is not fixed.
Opposition leader R Ashoka accused the Information Department of unevenly distributing Assembly photographs and videos.
Ashoka said opposition speeches and statements were receiving less media circulation than those of ruling-party members.
He made the allegation in a letter to Assembly Speaker G.S. Patil during the monsoon session.
The session began on August 13 amid heated exchanges between the Congress and BJP.
Ashoka urged equal treatment and warned he could initiate a privilege motion against officials.
- Who
- Opposition leader R Ashoka made the allegation and addressed it to Assembly Speaker G.S. Patil.
- What
- Ashoka alleged that the Information Department was selectively distributing photographs, videos and other media material from Assembly proceedings.
- Where
- The Legislative Assembly in Bengaluru.
- When
- During the monsoon session, which began on August 13.
- Why
- Ashoka said opposition members were receiving less publicity than ruling-party members and sought impartial media dissemination.
Key facts
- Complainant
- R Ashoka, the Opposition leader
- Recipient of letter
- Assembly Speaker G.S. Patil
- Department named
- Information Department
- Alleged disparity
- Opposition statements and speeches were allegedly circulated less than those of the Chief Minister, ministers and ruling-party legislators.
- Requested action
- Directions to provide journalists with opposition-related photographs, videos and other media material.
- Possible response
- Ashoka warned of a privilege motion against officials if the issue remains unaddressed.
- Session timing
- The monsoon session began on August 13.
Quotes
R Ashoka
Karnataka Opposition leader and BJP politician
“The proceedings of the Legislative Assembly should be covered impartially. There should be no discrimination between the ruling party and opposition members.”
thehansindia.com










