KOTTAYAM: Vice President VP Radhakrishnan on Sunday emphasized the importance of constructive journalism and urged media organizations to give greater attention to positive developments, warning that a lack of such coverage could influence young people to follow misleading trends and narratives.
Speaking as the chief guest at the 140th anniversary celebrations of the Malayalam daily in Kottayam, Kerala, Radhakrishnan highlighted the media’s responsibility in shaping public opinion and strengthening society. He said that journalism should focus on informing citizens about constructive initiatives and achievements that contribute to national development.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President remarked that positive activities and accomplishments deserve wider media coverage so that young people receive the right information and are inspired by meaningful role models. Referring indirectly to the recently popular satirical platform known as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), he said that if positive developments are not reported adequately, youngsters may lose interest in constructive pursuits and instead gravitate toward such trends.
Radhakrishnan stressed that responsible journalism plays a vital role in guiding society and building public confidence. He noted that as India continues its development journey under the leadership of Prime Minister , media institutions carry an even greater responsibility to highlight progress and encourage informed public discourse.
The Vice President clarified that he supports freedom of expression but expressed concern about the disproportionate attention sometimes given to issues that may not have lasting significance. Without naming the platform directly, he questioned the rapid rise in attention surrounding the Cockroach Janta Party and suggested that genuinely valuable ideas stand the test of time rather than gaining sudden popularity overnight.
According to him, meaningful initiatives continue to earn recognition days, weeks, and even months after they emerge, whereas fleeting trends often disappear as quickly as they arrive. He added that noble ideas and positive messages should reach every corner of society and contribute to nation-building.
The remarks come amid growing discussions around the Cockroach Janta Party, a satirical online platform that recently gained significant traction among young social media users. The platform emerged following controversy over comments attributed to Chief Justice of India during a court hearing. Reports suggested that a section of youth had been described as “cockroaches” and “parasites,” sparking widespread debate online.
Subsequently, clarifications were issued stating that the observations were directed at individuals allegedly entering the legal profession through fake or bogus qualifications and that the remarks had been misrepresented in public discussions. Nevertheless, the controversy triggered the creation of the Cockroach Janta Party.
Founded by political communication strategist , the initiative began as a satirical response to the controversy and was initially presented as a platform representing the so-called “lazy and unemployed cockroaches.” Over time, however, it evolved into a broader digital movement that uses humor, memes, and political commentary to discuss issues affecting young people.
The platform has since drawn attention for addressing concerns such as unemployment, examination paper leaks, education-related challenges, and wider questions about governance and public policy. Its rapid rise has made it a notable presence in online political discourse, particularly among younger audiences.
Radhakrishnan’s comments have added a new dimension to the debate, highlighting the ongoing conversation about the role of media, digital activism, satire, and the influence of online platforms in shaping public opinion in contemporary India.
