Rethinking How We Communicate
In public life, there’s a familiar refrain: when questioned by members of the press, many politicians, elected representatives, or ministers respond with the standard line — “the matter is politically motivated.”
Interestingly, the word politics itself contains the word ethical. Yet, in practice, the connection between politics and ethics often seems strained. Part of the problem lies with the media, and how narratives are perpetuated and framed.
In English, the word political often causes misunderstanding. This makes it all the more important for spokespeople to have clear guidelines on the synonyms or terms they use.
Communication Guidelines for Elected Representatives
To avoid confusion and ensure clarity, the following measures could be considered:
Elected representatives should speak only with Doordarshan.
If they wish to speak in their native language, it should be broadcast on Doordarshan only.
Establishing the Indian Communication Service (ICS)
The President of India could establish a dedicated Indian Communication Service (ICS) to strengthen the government’s communication infrastructure. Its mandate would include:
Sole responsibility for the publication of Gazette notifications
Management of NICNET to world-class and international standards, using Indian technology
Installation of a mainframe computer with nodes to store government files securely — both in digital and physical form — with archival and recovery systems
All operations carried out within Central Government property
Clarifying Roles: Elected Representatives vs Politicians
When elected representatives use the term political, it should refer to their role in the political management of the nation — a role in which they have sworn an oath to protect the Constitution.
Elected representatives:
Must always be recognised as elected representatives
Should not be equated with politicians who:
– Belong to party systems
– Aspire to become future elected representatives
– Work their way up through the party agenda
It is important to remember that even without a political party, any person can still contest elections and win as an independent candidate.
Language and Definition Matter
India has 23 official languages. This linguistic diversity makes it essential for the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Ministry of Communication to jointly frame and define the meanings of critical terms used in press statements.
By doing so, we can avoid misinterpretations and bring communication back to its intended clarity and purpose.
