Burgeoning Media’s Reporting of Rape Cases in Delhi: Some Reflections and Its Impact

Abstract

The research study consisted of three types of respondents: 19 female victims of rape, 100 common people and 20 media houses. On the basis of interview of rape victims, characteristics of reported rape cases were drawn. The basis of reporting had certain distinguishing features which usually entail reiteration of picking only such analogous cases constituting ‘real rape’ elements in order to make news very sensational. The reporting had revealed the identity of the victims. Media personnel had projected the image of the police in a very negative manner, whereas findings were antagonistic. Police had played an effective role in the speedy investigation and successful interrogation. The performance of the court was poor as projected by the media. The reporting had a negative impact on common people as it created a fear psychosis in the society.