Social Media Has Replaced 'Rowdies' for Politicians, Says Former CJI N.V. Ramana
In a sharp critique of modern public discourse, former Chief Justice of India (CJI) N.V. Ramana on Sunday stated that social media has taken the place of the "rowdies" who once stood behind political leaders. He was speaking at the Ramoji Excellence Awards 2025 ceremony.
Justice Ramana expressed grave concern over the unchecked spread of false propaganda, warning that it is causing immense damage to society. "In today's society, any person with a smartphone can become a publisher or a media house," he noted, highlighting the lack of accountability and the serious threat posed by fake news.
He lamented that while social media offers a broad platform for democratic expression, it has become a "menace" that harasses people through unregulated smear campaigns. The former CJI also observed that political parties and governments have not yet fully recognised the severity of this issue.
Contrasting the current media landscape with the principled journalism of the late Ramoji Rao, Justice Ramana said that social media is now "devouring" the mainstream media. He added that the digital space has turned into a "heaven" for cybercriminals and blackmailers.
Paying tribute to Ramoji Rao, he described him as a visionary leader and a steadfast friend committed to protecting Telugu culture and values. Justice Ramana concluded that the truest tribute to his legacy would be a collective dedication to nation-building.
Justice Ramana expressed grave concern over the unchecked spread of false propaganda, warning that it is causing immense damage to society. "In today's society, any person with a smartphone can become a publisher or a media house," he noted, highlighting the lack of accountability and the serious threat posed by fake news.
He lamented that while social media offers a broad platform for democratic expression, it has become a "menace" that harasses people through unregulated smear campaigns. The former CJI also observed that political parties and governments have not yet fully recognised the severity of this issue.
Contrasting the current media landscape with the principled journalism of the late Ramoji Rao, Justice Ramana said that social media is now "devouring" the mainstream media. He added that the digital space has turned into a "heaven" for cybercriminals and blackmailers.
Paying tribute to Ramoji Rao, he described him as a visionary leader and a steadfast friend committed to protecting Telugu culture and values. Justice Ramana concluded that the truest tribute to his legacy would be a collective dedication to nation-building.