Role of Media vis-a-vis Visibility and Inclusivity of Sexual Minority in India in the Light of Human Rights

Abstract

The contribution of news media in the present scenario cannot be emphasised enough. Dubbing it as the fourth estate, is quite apt, when it comes to the immense impact the media has had in all spheres of life. Whether it be in form of provider of factual accounts, investigative reporting or as a watch-dog or mobiliser of collective will and opinion, its contribution in a democratic set-up keeps on evolving. On the same parity, all the progressive societies, characterised through democratic establishment, can effectively flourish only when its citizens are ensured their human rights. An individual cannot attain its optimum potential if he/she is denied the bare minimum rights. The members of the sexual minorities in India have faced much discrimination and harassment due to their non-conforming sexual identity and gender. The present article aims to examine the role that media has played in recent times in making the LGBTQ community more visible in the country, and providing the much-needed inclusivity and acceptance to the community.