In an online meeting with senior editors of media houses on Thursday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urged them to exercise utmost caution while reporting news related to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Mr Vijayan said most of the families in the state were connected to the Gulf in some way and the media played a key role in calming the spirits of people who were worried about their friends or relatives in West Asia.
“It is time for the media to exercise restraint and show a sense of deep responsibility in covering the unfolding crisis, as news related to the conflict could create fear and anxiety among the relatives of Keralite emigrants. Priority should be given to facts and information received through official channels. Even a small amount of hyperbole or sensationalism would ensure an adverse impact on the emigrant family, under no circumstances would the information be verified and relevant. Speculations spread like news,” he said.
The news should not give the impression that all countries in the region were at risk of war. There should be balance in the news, including the views of experts and experienced diplomats, he said.
Mr. Vijayan urged the media to give utmost importance to the safety and security of the expatriate population. Unnecessary details such as the expatriate’s personal details – including his place of work, address and the like – were best avoided unless necessary. He also urged the media to give more emphasis on security guidelines, other timely notifications and information on emergency numbers at Indian Missions, MEA Help Desks, NORKA Services, Kerala Government Help Desks and so on.
The media could focus on drawing official attention to expatriate issues such as labor issues, travel restrictions, security concerns, and so on. He said the state government would bring the issue of skyrocketing ticket prices to the notice of the Centre.
Published – 05 March 2026 20:41 IST
