The Hindustan Times’ Duplicity

So, in as many times in the last two days, my online comments on two articles in the web version of Hindustan Times have been deleted/barred from public viewing.

The first article had to do with Rajdeep Sardesai and Sagarika Ghose’s exit/long leave of absence from CNN IBN (see article here).  In my comment I said that both of them had abused the privileges of the channel and used it as their “personal playground” to engage in systematic Modi bashing.  I also questioned Sagarika’s article from many years ago, where she asked for a rewrite of the Hindu hymn, the purusha sukta. 

The second article had to do with Barkha Dutt’s opinion that our Prime Minister, Mr. Modi’s silence on issues is perplexing (see article here).  I replied to her stating that she should also expect disappointment if he does not oblige as also comments to the effect that the rules of political engagement by the current PM and his office have changed now.

My responses to both these comments was civil and I believe comply with HT’s Ts & Cs as well as its privacy policy.  

I have certainly seen worse comments including personal attacks on both these articles (my opinion) that have made it past the goal post.

I find it strange that the Hindustan Times seeks freedom of speech and expression as a media house but is unwilling to extend the same courtesy to the people who visit its website and post comments.  Did their monitoring/review people feel personally threatened when I made those comments?  Or that it would spark furore and outrage? Or start an online flaming war?

Shame on you Hindustan Times. 

Sumanth