New Delhi: A new logo unveiled for Doordarshan’s English news programme, DD News, has stirred up controversy in New Delhi. The logo, featuring an orange tone, has replaced the old red emblem, drawing criticism, particularly from opposition parties.
DD News, in a statement accompanying the logo’s launch, expressed its vision for the future, stating, “While our ideals remain unchanged, we are now available in a new avatar. Prepare for a news trip like never before. Experience the all-new DD News! We are courageous enough to prioritise accuracy over haste, facts over claims, and truth over sensationalism. Because if it appears on DD News, it must be true!”
Jawahar Sircar, a Trinamool Congress MP and former CEO of Prasar Bharati, Doordarshan’s parent organisation, condemned the decision, stating, “As an ex-CEO of Prasar Bharati, it saddens me to see the saffronization of Doordarshan’s logo—just before elections! It will influence voters, by overlaying the colour one religion and Sangh Parivar colour with a ‘neutral’ Public Broadcaster and a biased Govt/Regime!”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also criticised the move, saying, “I am startled at the abrupt saffronization and changing of colour of our Doordarshan emblem while national elections are being held throughout the country! It is completely unethical, illegal, and demonstrates the national broadcaster’s pro-BJP bias!”
This incident follows Banerjee’s previous criticism of the BJP government for releasing saffron-colored practice jerseys for the Men’s Indian Cricket Team, which she claimed was an attempt to saffronize the team.
Established by the Government of India in 1959 and owned by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Doordarshan is a crucial component of India’s media landscape. DD News, its English news station, plays a pivotal role in disseminating news and information to audiences across the nation.
