The Study of Comparative Analysis of Newspaper Coverage of Marital Rape Debate in 2022

Abstract

In the wake of heightened awareness surrounding marital rape, this study conducts a critical analysis of how India's leading newspapers, "The Indian Express" and "The Times of India," addressed this contentious issue during the pivotal period of January 1 to February 28, 2022. The primary aim is to examine the articles' tone, framing, and emphasis, seeking to discern the prevailing stance of these influential publications in the ongoing debate. The in-depth examination encompasses four crucial aspects including Story types, totality counts, number of columns, and bylines. Through a qualitative research approach applying content analysis the study integrates agenda-setting theory, feminist theory, and consensus theory. The study explores the portrayal of marital rape in these newspapers. Drawing from an extensive array of sources, including government documents, journalistic publications, and educational platforms, a robust dataset is constructed, ensuring the validity and reliability of results. This multiplicity of sources illuminates a nuanced understanding of media representation surrounding this deeply entrenched issue. The sentiment analysis reveals intriguing insights, with "The Indian Express" exhibiting a mix of neutral and positive tones, while "The Times of India" showcases a broader spectrum with both neutral and negative sentiments. Furthermore, the distribution of stories across different column lengths provides additional layers for analysis, highlighting variations in editorial choices and prioritization within each publication. Additionally, the count of bylines underscores the diversity of voices shaping the narrative, with "The Times of India" presenting a higher number compared to "The Indian Express," suggesting potential differences in editorial approaches and journalistic practices between the two newspapers. The study not only contributes to the academic discourse but also serves as a crucial reference for policymakers and activists striving for societal transformation.