Assertion (A): The mass media and politics in India are intertwine(D)
Reason (R): Indian masses are highly politically charged in their day-to-day affairs, and depend upon mass media for the purpose.
(A) Both (A) and (R) are true
(B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(C) (A) is true, but (R) is false
(D) (A) is false, but (R) is true
Correct Ans: (B)
Explanation:
Start with the Assertion (A): The mass media and politics in India are intertwined. This is true. Media platforms in India play a crucial role in shaping political narratives, influencing elections, and giving visibility to political issues. News channels, social media, and newspapers are all key players in the political discourse of the country.
Now consider the Reason (R): Indian masses are highly politically charged in their day-to-day affairs, and depend upon mass media for the purpose. This is also true. From village tea stalls to urban Twitter debates, political discussions are deeply woven into Indian daily life. Furthermore, people often look to mass media for updates, analysis, and perspectives that guide their political opinions.
Moreover, this reason correctly explains the assertion. Because Indian citizens are highly politically engaged, they rely on mass media as a primary source of political information. This creates a mutually reinforcing relationship: the public demands political coverage, and the media supplies it, often influencing and reflecting political trends in the process.
Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason directly supports the Assertion. So, Option (B) is the correct answer.
