Media, Nationalism, and the Kashmir Crisis: A Comparative Content Analysis of Two Leading South Asian Newspapers

Abstract

After the events of 5^th August 2019, when the Indian Government revoked Articles 370 and 35A of its constitution, the political and media landscape regarding Kashmir conflict has been drastically changed. The study examines how the leading newspapers of India and Pakistan- Hindustan Times (India), and Dawn (Pakistan) framed Kashmir issue in their respective issues during three months’ time. The findings of the study reveal that Hindustan Times provided more coverage to Kashmir in sharp contrast with Dawn. However, the issue was highlighted through the lens of Article 370/35A, territorial sovereignty, and Indian state narratives and the frames used by the newspaper were often war oriented. On the other hand, Dawn focused on international reaction and emphasized peace oriented and solution frames. The study demonstrates how media framing reinforces national positions on contested political issues, shaping public consciousness and international perceptions.