Patriotism Vs Loyalty: The Dilemma of the Indian Press During the World Wars

  • Unique Paper ID: 167824
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 4
  • PageNo: 500-504
  • Abstract:
  • The period of the World Wars presented a complex challenge for the Indian press, caught between emerging nationalist sentiments and the expectations of loyalty to the British Empire. The article "Patriotism vs. Loyalty: The Dilemma of the Indian Press During the World Wars" examines how newspapers in India navigated these conflicting demands. On the one hand, nationalist leaders and sections of the public saw the wars as opportunities to push for political reforms and eventual self-rule, advocating for patriotic calls for Indian rights. On the other hand, the British colonial authorities expected the Indian press to uphold loyalty to the Crown and support the war efforts, often backed by strict censorship policies. This investigation reveals the press's subtle yet significant role in shaping public opinion, negotiating with the colonial power, and preserving the nationalist spirit amidst war-induced restrictions. By examining key case studies, the article illustrates how this delicate balancing act contributed to the evolving identity of the Indian press as both a tool for resistance and a vehicle for colonial control. This article explores the unique dilemma faced by Indian newspapers during World War I and World War II as they navigated their role in the socio-political landscape. During the wars, the Indian press became a battleground for competing loyalties, shaped by colonial censorship, government propaganda, and nationalist fervor. Newspapers were often caught between the pressure to support Britain’s war efforts, portraying them as a global cause, and their growing commitment to India’s nationalist movement, which saw the wars as opportunities to press for independence. Ultimately, the article underscores the complex role the Indian press played in shaping public opinion during the World Wars. It demonstrates how newspapers served as instruments for colonial control and national awakening, revealing the broader tensions between empire and emerging nationhood.

Cite This Article

  • ISSN: 2349-6002
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 4
  • PageNo: 500-504

Patriotism Vs Loyalty: The Dilemma of the Indian Press During the World Wars

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