Re: highly exaggerated HIV numbers for Taxi Drivers in Mumbai

[Guest guest]

Dear moderator,

Ref: Dr. Gilada's posting on " highly exaggerated HIV numbers for Taxi Drivers in

Mumbai "

This is a serious concern - on one hand we are trying to " normalise " the

epidemic whereas on the other hand, it is unfortunate to hear and read yet

another such sensational stories.

Yesterday, I was shocked to see one of the news channels going overboard about

the " HIV NUMBERS IN TAXI-DRIVERS " . The issue needs to be addressed in

neutrality.

The news reader/ presenter/ anchor was least bothered to verify the facts before

airing such views in mass media which could have serious implications as

mentioned by Dr Gilada. This raises some basic questions on how well is the

media informed on such an issue which not only needs medical attention but also

is determined by complex structures of social, economic, political and cultural

processes.

We, the consumers, should seriously consider a mechanism to monitor media

excesses in reporting such issues.

Dr G. Mahesh

ActionAid International Asia

E-88, II Floor, Saket,

New Delhi - 110 017

Tel: +91 11 26511311, 26511277, 41671416

e-mail: <gmahesht@...>