ROLE OF MEDIA IN SHAPING PUBLIC PERCEPTION AND INFLUENCING JUDICIAL OUTCOMES REGARDING DOWRY AND RELATED CRIMES IN INDIA

Abstract

The media plays a significant role in shaping public perception and influencing judicial outcomes regarding dowry and related crimes in India. The media wields a profound influence in shaping public perception and molding judicial outcomes concerning dowry and related crimes in India. Through diverse platforms such as newspapers, television, and social media, the media plays a pivotal role in disseminating information, fostering awareness, and catalyzing discussions surrounding the prevalence and consequences of dowry-related offenses. Its ability to set the agenda is evident in the selection of specific cases or aspects for coverage, thus directing public attention and influencing policy priorities. Media narratives contribute significantly to shaping public opinion by framing the severity of the issue, assessing the efficacy of existing legal frameworks, and emphasizing the need for reform. Moreover, media coverage can extend its impact into judicial proceedings, potentially subjecting high-profile cases to public pressure that may either enhance the pursuit of justice or introduce biases into judicial decisions. As a powerful advocate for change, the media can contribute to campaigns against dowry-related crimes, using journalistic investigations and documentaries to mobilize public support and push for legal reforms. However, the media also faces challenges in maintaining ethical reporting standards, emphasizing the need for responsible journalism to avoid perpetuating stereotypes and to foster a more nuanced understanding of the issue.

Furthermore, the media's influence extends into the intricacies of judicial processes, potentially shaping the behavior of those involved, including judges, lawyers, and witnesses. High-profile cases receiving extensive media coverage may experience heightened scrutiny, impacting the judicial system's response to such crimes. The media's role in advocacy is particularly evident in its power to not only highlight the challenges but also champion the cause for change. Responsible reporting becomes paramount as media outlets navigate the delicate balance between raising awareness and avoiding the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes. The power dynamics between the media, public perception, and the judiciary underscore the need for a thoughtful and conscientious approach to reporting on dowry-related crimes. In essence, the media serves as a double-edged sword, capable of fostering positive societal change through informed reporting or inadvertently perpetuating harmful narratives that may impede progress in addressing these deeply ingrained social issues. As a catalyst for both awareness and potential transformation, the media's role in shaping public opinion and influencing judicial outcomes remains a crucial aspect of the ongoing discourse surrounding dowry and related crimes in India.Here are some key aspects of this influence: