Sudhir Chaudhary, a stalwart in Indian journalism, has made his mark in the ever-evolving and often challenging realm of media reporting. Holding the position of consulting editor at the esteemed Hindi news channel Aaj Tak, his influence on the media landscape remains profound. Let’s delve into the journey of this seasoned journalist.
Career Trajectory
Chaudhary’s journey in television news began in the 1990s, starting with roles at Zee News before moving on to Live India and Mi Marathi. His experiences encompassed live television reporting, eventually transitioning into the realm of 24-hour news broadcasting.
One notable assignment was his involvement in the coverage of the Vajpayee–Musharraf Indo-Pak meeting in Islamabad after the 2001 Indian Parliament attack. His dedication and prowess propelled him swiftly through the ranks.
In 2003, Chaudhary departed from Zee News but continued to leave his imprint on the media landscape. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of Sahara Samay, Sahara group’s Hindi-language news channel, followed by a brief stint at India TV.
Returning to Zee News in 2012, he assumed the role of editor-in-chief and CEO. During his tenure, his prime-time show “Daily News & Analysis (DNA)” became a staple for news aficionados. However, his journey at Zee News encountered twists and turns, culminating in his resignation in July 2022.
Post his departure from Zee News, Chaudhary embarked on a new phase of his career by joining Aaj Tak. Currently, he hosts the prime-time show “Black & White (B & W),” captivating audiences with his distinctive brand of journalism.
Legal Battles and Controversies
Chaudhary’s career has been punctuated by controversies. In the infamous Jindal extortion case of 2012, he and his colleague Sameer Ahluwalia faced charges of extortion following accusations by businessman Naveen Jindal. Despite legal battles, the journalists were released on bail.
Further controversies ensued as Chaudhary was embroiled in a criminal defamation case after accusing Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra of plagiarism. Allegations of Islamophobia also surfaced following his remarks on Zee News in April 2020, where he implicated Muslims in hindering India’s COVID-19 efforts.
In June 2023, Chaudhary faced backlash for falsely attributing the destruction of a temple in Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr to Muslims, underscoring the challenges journalists encounter amid the proliferation of misinformation.
Security Challenges and Accolades
Chaudhary’s fearless journalism has subjected him to personal risks. In 2015, due to threats against his life, he was provided with X-category security. Moreover, claims of Chinese surveillance on Chaudhary in 2020 added a geopolitical dimension to his work.
Despite the challenges, Chaudhary’s dedication has been acknowledged. He was honoured with the prestigious Ramnath Goenka Award for Excellence in Journalism in 2013, specifically in the “Hindi broadcast” category. The award recognised his impactful interview with the friend of the Delhi December 16 gang-rape victim, highlighting the profound nature of his reporting.
Conclusion
Sudhir Chaudhary’s journey in Indian media epitomises the highs and lows of a journalist’s life. From covering historic events to facing legal battles and controversies, Chaudhary has remained steadfast in the field. His current role at Aaj Tak underscores his resilience and unwavering commitment to journalism, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the Indian media landscape.