RSP’s Dhital urges deeper, more responsible journalism

KATHMANDU: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chief Whip Krantishikha Dhital has stressed the need for more critical, insightful, and intellectually rigorous journalism, saying that the quality of questions defines the gap between mainstream media and digital platforms like YouTube channels.

Taking to social media, Dhital said journalism should move beyond surface-level reporting and engage in deeper, thought-provoking inquiry.

“I want the journalism sector to become more intellectually critical and raise deeper questions,” she wrote. “The gap between mainstream media and other information-sharing YouTube channels can be reduced or widened by the quality of questions. Elevate the standard of questioning.”

She also acknowledged that some YouTube channels are now competing with established mainstream media and suggested that traditional outlets could even learn from them where necessary. At the same time, she expressed readiness to respond to serious and fact-based questions.

Dhital further raised concern over the objectification of women on social media, particularly criticism based on appearance, walking style, or laughter, saying such practices strengthen harmful social norms despite good intentions.

Describing media as more than just an information delivery tool, she emphasized its role in shaping public consciousness and called for it to be more responsible, sensitive, and transformative.

With a background in journalism, Dhital said she respects the media community but felt compelled to highlight practices that need improvement.

She specifically criticized the tendency to begin interviews with remarks such as “you look beautiful” or “you look smart today,” saying such framing reduces women to appearance rather than substance.

According to her, such approaches reflect structural issues that push women away from meaningful discourse and weaken public debate.

Calling for equality, respect, and meaningful representation, she urged journalists to focus on substance over appearance.

“The microphone you hold is a medium for ideas, not for judging beauty,” she said. “There are many other platforms for beauty appreciation. Be aware and responsible about the kind of questions you ask and the space you occupy.”