WJAI Session in Patna Highlights the Need for Linguistic Accuracy in Digital Journalism

Patna: The fourth episode of the Web Journalists Association of India (WJAI) Samvad programme featured an insightful session on March 9, where senior journalist and former WJAI national treasurer Om Prakash Ashk spoke about the importance of linguistic accuracy in digital media.

Discussing the theme “Linguistic Refinement in Digital Media,” Ashk highlighted the shift from print and television to digital platforms, noting that while newspapers once played a key role in refining language, their readership has declined sharply. With news now available online within minutes, digital media has become the dominant source of information, but at the cost of linguistic quality.

Ashk stressed that digital journalists must go beyond breaking news and focus on precise and responsible reporting. “Before publishing any story, it is crucial to assess its impact,” he said, urging media professionals to prioritise accuracy over speed. He pointed out the diminishing presence of language experts in newsrooms, which has led to a decline in editorial standards.

To address these challenges, Ashk advised journalists to re-read their work, seek peer feedback, and use modern tools like artificial intelligence (AI) to check grammar, style, and context. He also referenced Supreme Court guidelines on avoiding certain words in media reports, urging journalists to adhere to ethical language practices.

Encouraging journalists to strengthen their vocabulary and writing skills, he recommended reading literary works by authors such as Premchand. He also suggested that while breaking news can be published swiftly, it should be followed by a well-crafted and refined report.

The session began with a welcome speech by WJAI national president Anand Kaushal and concluded with a vote of thanks by national vice-president Dr Madho Singh. Moderated by national general secretary Amit Ranjan, the virtual event saw participation from WJAI members across India.