In the world of journalism, it is often said that the profession gives a voice to the people. However, during her internship as a student reporter, Bini Yurom discovered that sometimes silence can tell a story just as powerful as words. Yurom’s experience covering press conferences, public meetings, and peaceful protests taught her that the most compelling stories are not always the ones that are spoken aloud.
Yurom recalls approaching people with simple questions, hoping to understand their thoughts on the issues affecting their communities. Instead of receiving straightforward answers, she was often met with polite smiles, quiet refusals, or a gentle shake of the head. Many individuals would decline to speak on camera, while others would only share their opinions after the camera was switched off. These reactions were not limited to a single event or issue, but rather a recurring theme throughout her reporting.
As Yurom met more people, she began to realize that their silence was not solely due to shyness or nervousness. Every person had a unique reason for remaining quiet, ranging from fear of being misunderstood to concerns about unwanted attention. These fears, whether justified or not, influenced how people chose to express themselves. Yurom’s experience changed her understanding of journalism, and she came to realize that reporting is not only about documenting what people say, but also about understanding why some people choose not to speak.
In Arunachal Pradesh, a state home to diverse communities and rich traditions, Yurom encountered many thoughtful individuals who had clear opinions about the issues affecting their communities. However, when the camera was turned on, many chose to remain silent. Their silence served as a reminder that not every story is spoken aloud, and that a good journalist must do more than ask questions. They must earn people’s trust, respect their comfort, and create an environment where they feel safe enough to speak honestly.
Yurom believes that local people also have a responsibility to speak for themselves. Journalists can report facts, highlight issues, and provide a platform, but they cannot replace the voices of the people. Every citizen has experiences and opinions that deserve to be heard, and meaningful change becomes possible only when both journalists and citizens are willing to play their part.
As Yurom continues her journey as a journalist, she will remember that even silence has a story worth telling. She will strive to listen with empathy, report with fairness, and create a space where people feel confident enough to share their thoughts openly.
