Rajdeep Sardesai: A Career Marred by Repeated Controversies and Credibility Questions

In a democratic nation like India, the media is often referred to as the fourth pillar of democracy. Its responsibility lies in disseminating truth, questioning authority, and upholding the sanctity of public discourse. However, when individuals from this pillar repeatedly falter, it raises serious concerns. One such individual is Rajdeep Sardesai, a senior journalist with decades of experience, whose career has been tainted by a series of controversies, questionable reporting, and repeated allegations of bias.

1. Republic Day Farmers' Protest Misreporting (2021)

On January 26, 2021, during the farmers' tractor rally in Delhi, Rajdeep Sardesai tweeted that a farmer was "killed in police firing." However, CCTV footage later revealed that the farmer died in an accident when his tractor overturned. India Today Group suspended Sardesai for two weeks and withheld a month's salary. This incident highlighted the dangers of unverified reporting during sensitive times.

2. Sohrabuddin Sheikh Encounter Case (2007)

Sardesai's channel aired a program implicating IPS officer Rajiv Trivedi in an illegal encounter, without concrete evidence. Years later, Sardesai issued an unconditional apology to Trivedi, and the court acquitted him of defamation. This case underscored the perils of sensationalism and narrative-driven journalism.

3. Defamation Suit by Shazia Ilmi (2024)

In 2024, BJP leader Shazia Ilmi filed a defamation case against Sardesai for a video he posted. The Delhi High Court instructed him to remove the video, deeming it defamatory. This case reiterated concerns about his tendency to indulge in character attacks under the guise of journalism.

4. Pulwama Attack Interview (2019)

After Pakistani Minister Fawad Chaudhry admitted to Pakistan's role in the Pulwama attack, Sardesai hosted him on his show. Instead of holding him accountable, the platform allowed the Pakistani narrative to be broadcasted with minimal challenge, earning criticism for being lenient and unpatriotic.

5. Sushant Singh Rajput Case Commentary (2020)

In the aftermath of actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s tragic death, Sardesai stated on-air that the actor was suffering from bipolar disorder and advised the family to mourn in peace. Many felt this was insensitive, speculative, and dismissive during a high-profile and emotionally charged investigation.

6. Misreporting on COVID-19 Relief Funds to Punjab

Sardesai claimed that Punjab had received only Rs 71 crore from the central government during the pandemic. However, official records indicated a significantly larger amount had been disbursed. This spread misinformation during a public health crisis.

7. Questionable Reporting on CAA Protests

During the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests, Sardesai presented the government’s outreach as an afterthought, suggesting that public opinion and debates were ignored. Critics argued that his coverage fanned fears and widened communal tensions instead of presenting balanced perspectives.

8. Political Allegations Against Sachin Pilot (2020)

Amid the Rajasthan political crisis, Sardesai alleged that rebel Congress leader Sachin Pilot was backed by the BJP. Pilot denied the claims, stating he funded his faction independently. The episode revealed a recurring pattern of politically motivated assumptions in his journalism.

9. 2002 Gujarat Riots: Contradictory Stances

Sardesai had long linked then-Gujarat CM Narendra Modi to the 2002 riots. However, in a 2019 interview, he conceded that he personally did not believe Modi was responsible, admitting the media had sensationalized the event. This exposed a significant disconnect between personal belief and professional reporting.

10. Misinformation on BHU Vice-Chancellor

Sardesai tweeted that the BHU Vice-Chancellor had participated in a political rally with PM Modi. This turned out to be false, prompting a public apology. Once again, credibility took a hit due to haste and lack of verification.

11. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Event Misreporting

Rajdeep Sardesai misrepresented an event involving spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, leading to public criticism and an eventual apology. The episode added to his long list of unverified claims and sensationalism.

12. Sohrabuddin Case TV Program (2007)

In a 2007 CNN-IBN segment titled "Sohrabuddin, the Inside Story," Sardesai’s channel broadcast content later deemed defamatory towards an IPS officer. This case came full circle with an apology years later but left lasting damage to his credibility.

Conclusion

"When the pen chooses sides over truth, journalism dies a slow death — not in silence, but in the echoes of manipulated narratives." - Adarsh Singh

Thu Apr 24, 2025