A Study Of The Relationship Between Social Conflict And Media In Meghalaya

Abstract

This paper presents an integrative analysis of societal conflict within Meghalaya, a northeastern state in India marked by ethnic diversity and a complex political history. The state is predominantly inhabited by the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes, yet it also harbours a multitude of other tribal and non-tribal communities. This study elucidates the intricate dimensions of conflict in Meghalaya, including political fragmentation, tribal identity politics, land disputes, and inter-tribal tensions exacerbated by migration. The research critically evaluates the ambivalent role of media in the region, highlighting its function as both a facilitator for dialogue and a potential vector for misinformation.

This study also underscores the pressing need for academic scrutiny into the nuanced interactions between media and conflict dynamics. This article adopts a sociological theoretical framework to contextualize these conflicts within broader global paradigms. The paper concludes by advocating for comprehensive media analysis to ensure accurate and objective portrayal of Meghalaya’s multifaceted social landscape. Recommendations include multi-stakeholder interventions that span governmental policies and grassroots community engagement to holistically address the multifarious nature of conflict in the region.