Opposition leaders criticise India's national broadcaster DD News for its new logo
- In Reports
- 06:03 PM, Apr 20, 2024
- Myind Staff
India's national broadcaster, Doordarshan (DD) News, is under criticism for its new saffron-coloured logo. The unveiling of the new logo has sparked controversy, with opposition leaders raising concerns about its symbolism.
In a post on X, DD News announced the change, stating that while their values remain unchanged, they are presenting themselves in a new avatar, promising a unique news experience to their audience.
The post asserted, "We prioritise accuracy over speed, facts over claims, and truth over sensationalism. If it's on DD News, it's the truth!" This statement was made alongside the unveiling of the new logo, which coincided with the upcoming first phase of the Lok Sabha elections.
Opposition leaders in the country, including Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP and former Prasar Bharati CEO Jawhar Sircar, voiced criticism of the new logo. Sircar expressed concern over the saffron colouring of the historic flagship logo of the national broadcaster Doordarshan, stating, "I have been watching its saffronisation with alarm and feel — it’s not Prasar Bharati any more — it’s Prachar Bharati!"
In a recent post, Sircar expressed concern that the logo change could sway voters by associating the broadcaster with a particular religion and the Sangh Parivar.
Additionally, Congress leader Manish Tewari said the central government of attempting to assert control over government institutions through the logo change. Tewari, a former information and broadcasting minister, highlighted how this move undermines the neutrality and credibility of India's public broadcaster.
Andhra Pradesh's BJP Vice President Vishnu Vardhan Reddy defended the logo change by stating that when Doordarshan was established in 1959, it featured a saffron logo. Reddy argued that the government's decision to revert to the original logo had sparked outrage among liberals and the Congress, indicating their aversion towards the colour 'Bhagwa' and Hindus.
Prasar Bharati's current CEO Gaurav Dwivedi informed the Indian Express that the new logo features a striking orange colour. Dwivedi stated that the decision to use a vibrant and appealing colour is solely for the purpose of enhancing the channel's branding and visual aesthetics. He expressed disappointment at any misinterpretation of the colour choice.
Image source: Indian Express
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