The Other Side of Merit

Just when I thought we were moving ahead,  hurdles surfaced in journey during the dinner hosted by the Royal Office of the Media on behalf of His Majesty the King. Journalism in Bhutan has a long way. I say. We have had jounalist who cared less about the basics of Journalism. Getting the facts right. For instance.

There was confusion on the National Day, when the National Order of Merit was awarded to some. It was cleared later that the Order of Merit was meant for all the Media Houses not to an individual. The individuals were merely the representatives. An apologetic Dorji Wangchuk, the Director of Royal Office of Media further clarified the misunderstanding created by lack of proper communication on 17th December among the organizers, just before presenting plaques to all media houses before dinner. That is it, it happens. Particularly when not desired badly.

Confusion worsened, when a reporter asked Dorji Wangchuk to answer on what basis the National Order of Merit was awarded to some of the individuals. This 'reporter' mentioned his own candidates as he asked the question. As a polite host and with a sense of humour he told the floor, he did not have that previledge. It was the desire of the King to recognise the role of media so far.

We have had a journalist among us who could get it all wrong despite confusion was cleared  in more than three instances. The clarification made in all occassions were an honest effort. The Director inquired if he answered the question. This journalist started insulting our host despite beautifully lined buffet in waiting. He roared from the floor. No.

Media is young in Bhutan, so is some of us. And it is blessed with forgiving audiences. For we have made mistakes, published unbalanced stories, erroneous reports, and many others unexpected from us. New the media industry may be, it has a job beyond reporting news and current affairs. To set long lasting best ethical standards and good practices of the profession. These reponsibilities cannot be achieved by walking away from Meet The Press.

Meet the Press is a commendable initiative for the growth of media. I would like to say, it is as unique as the country itself. As far as I see, It is a calculated intention to make Bhutan a transparent society. Goodness that journalists around the world wish for. Is it not too early to impose bigger responsibility such as National Order of Merit to an individual who cannot see that? Just a thought, though.

 

It was wise that all the media houses were recognised for their efforts. Not that media has achieved anything. It is a humble token of encouragement of highest order. I say. Media is young, professional within it are younger. Thank you for the kindness and support so far.