MediaOne, a Malayalam-language news channel operated by Madhyamam Broadcasting Limited and associated with Jamaat-e-Islami, is once again under the spotlight after airing content that allegedly spreads fear among the Christian community in Kerala. In a recent group discussion program titled “Out of Focus,” the channel claimed that the BJP-led central government is planning to introduce a “Church Act” to take over land owned by Christian churches and institutions across the country.
The discussion attempted to draw parallels between the so-called Church Act and the Waqf Act, implying that Christian properties would face a similar fate as those managed under the Waqf Board. The program presented the narrative as if such legislation is already being considered, despite there being no official announcement, policy proposal, or legislative draft suggesting the existence of such an act.
Observers believe the intent behind this broadcast is to instill fear among Christians and to disturb the increasing unity between Hindu and Christian communities in Kerala. The narrative also appears aimed at undermining the growing support of Kerala’s Christian community for the BJP, particularly after the party introduced reforms to the Waqf Act that were seen as steps toward greater transparency and fairness—reforms welcomed by many in the Christian community.
MediaOne’s actions are not without precedent. In 2022, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting revoked the channel’s license citing national security concerns, a move later upheld by the Kerala High Court based on classified intelligence inputs.
MediaOne has been repeatedly accused of playing a key role in radicalizing Muslim youth in Kerala by spreading fake news and airing fabricated discussions. Through selectively framed debates and misinformation, the channel has allegedly contributed to creating a sense of alienation and promoting extremist narratives among vulnerable sections of the community.
Comments