Ethics Policy
A. Responsible journalism Ensuring high editorial standards is central to everything Jagran New Media journalists do at Jagran New Media. Jagran New Media believes that a combined and coordinated effort from reporters, editors and producers is needed to achieve good quality journalism. It is their responsibility to present an error-free and top quality report to the audience. A successful editor tells the reporters about every aspect of the report, so that the reporters can present a holistic picture in their coverage.
At Jagran New Media, reporters, sub-editors, content writers and desk shift in-charges in all centers carefully check all editorial material before publication, and only then is it made live on websites. In cases where it is needed, the shift in-charge publishes the copy only after consulting the editor and getting his/her approval.
B. Non-partisanship Many stringent standards are ensured by the observance of our comprehensive Editorial Policy that lays down the Code of Conduct and guidelines for its journalists. JNM stands by its ethical stand of 'No Influencers Policy' which ensures that its stories are not influenced by any external bias. No one working with us engages in partisan political activity or makes any contributions to candidates or advocacy organisations.
Our objective is to provide non-partisan and independent coverage of news. The editors consult the legal team as and when needed. Our journalists are honest and work without any fear or partisanship. It is expected from the working staff that they will not act in any manner which will damage the image of the organisation. Our staff is made aware of the fact that anyone found in violation of the above is liable to face legal action and have their employment contract cancelled.
C. Fairness It is possible that some of our journalists' close relatives or friends are in politics or the legal profession. In such cases, they are sensitised about the gravity of the situation and the added responsibility they have to ensure that their reporting or news coverage remains completely unbiased. It is the responsibility of a journalist to keep an eye on public events/rallies, even if they do not cover the beat assigned to them.
While publishing any political news, our reporters are particular about quoting political leader is in the right context. Jagran New Media employees remain neutral and give equal space to all parties without any fear or favour when reporting political news. During the election period, JNM journalists write content which adheres to the election code of conduct.
At Jagran New Media, neither do JNM Journalists misquote leaders or political parties while reporting political news nor do they quote statements which spread hate or violence. Guidelines issued by the Election Commission are duly followed while publishing election surveys or pre-poll surveys.
JNM publishes detailed analysis of major political events occurring on the national and international events in order to make the readers aware of them. JNM staff is constantly sensitized to remain honest towards their work, so that any and all accusations of biased reporting/coverage are avoided at all costs. In case a staff member witnesses such a situation, they are encouraged to inform their editor, so that preventive and corrective action can be taken in time to avoid any untoward situation such as a conflict of interest.
D. Credibility JNM journalists are responsible towards our readers and hence maintain the highest standards of responsible journalism. JNM journalists have complete faith in our sources and skills. JNM journalists collect news/information from different sources and then independently verify it. JNM journalists decide what they will cover and how they will work. JNM journalists are continually sensitized about their responsibility when reporting. They are encouraged to accept criticism with an open mind and listen to the common man carefully so that their reporting accurately captures the ground reality. JNM journalists include the opinions of all parties in our reporting and do not attempt to become one of the parties while reporting an issue.
E. Transparency JNM believes that journalism is not only an occupation but also a calling which requires JNM to present the correct picture of the world. JNM guiding principles encourage the employees to answer questions and also raise new questions. This principle guides JNM to maintain uniformity in its thoughts and actions. JNM encourages discussions and debates, so that our work can shine brighter.
F. Freedom of Expression Both, JNM journalistic as well as managerial staff are provided with a fair chance to express them freely and present their opinion. They can also present their views on news which they are not reporting. A standard has been specified for that, and it is ensured that it is followed. The quotes are always accurate. If it is necessary to shorten the length of a certain quote due to any reason, our staff makes it a point to ensure that the meaning of the quote does not change.
G. Verification and Fact Checking JNM takes the issue of fake news very seriously and takes a responsible stand on fighting this menace. It has therefore launched India's First Fact Check Website – Vishvas News – which is certified by the Poynter Institute for Fact-Checking. In a very short span of time, Vishvas News has expanded to 5 languages and has also begun producing fact-check videos.
As a front-runner in the drive against combating misinformation, JNM takes a socially-responsible stand of spreading awareness about this issue. It works closely with IFCN and regularly conducts nation-wide awareness drives where it conducts workshops and seminars to educate individuals and organizations about the issue of fake news and equips them to combat it effectively.
Jagran New Media encourages its news writers to keep in mind the following considerations when producing articles:
- Credit, acknowledge, and verify the source(s) of your information.
- Consider whether you know enough about the information to qualify as a trustable source.
- Think critically when addressing claims.
- Never make assumptions.
JNM trusts its news writers' integrity and the accuracy of the information provided in our publication. But in case a mistake is made, JNM recognizes the importance of admitting to mistakes and diligently working to provide correct information. Consequently, JNM encourages our readers, contributors, and their sources to provide us with feedback on any of our content.
