STAR NEWS launches Benaqab

Media News

MUMBAI, September 15

Guilty of corruption, compromising your morality and position for a few bucks more, responsible for covering the truth under the veil of treachery and deceit? Then be prepared to run… and run real fast as Indian news television is set to witness a revolution and the reinvention of Investigative Journalism. For the first time on Indian news TV, STAR News, the people’s channel responsible for unearthing some of the biggest scams and crimes in society, and Aniruddha Bahal, the man behind many significant exposés in India, have joined hands to present BENAQAB. The investigative bulletin will seek to unmask the ugly face of corruption, whatever the stakes. Set to launch on Saturday, September 16th, at 9.00 pm and to be aired every Saturday and Sunday at 9.30 pm from September 17th onwards, the investigative bulletin will be anchored by the indefatigable Aniruddha Bahal. Benaqab aims towards a better tomorrow for the people of India by leaving a strong message to the corrupt in our land – you can run, but you can’t hide! Benaqab will be watching…

World over, investigative journalism has helped imprison the corrupt, trigger legislations and uncover miscarriages of justice. Watergate, the most shining example of investigative journalism was the darkest hour for US presidency and the brightest for media. What started off as a small and insignificant investigation turned out to be the nemesis for Richard Nixon and his allies. Thus establishing that as the champion of public opinion, media serves as a powerful catalyst for positive change, even in the face of the biggest odds.

STAR News has proved its prowess in investigative journalism through its instrumental role in some of the biggest exposés and unearthing scandals – Operation Chakravyuh (the MPLAD funds), Operation Yamraj (corrupt cops of UP), the case of fake Tantriks, the Anti-Bribery campaign etc. Aniruddha Bahal, on the other hand, has been the man behind many significant exposés. His role in Operation Westend – exposé on Indian Defence procurement, and Fallen Heroes – a startling investigation into cricket match fixing has created ripples in the highest corridors of politics and sports.

Commenting on the launch of Benaqab, Uday Shankar, CEO & Editor, MCCS says, “It’s our endeavor to bring to light the most closely guarded secrets of corrupt practices and corrupt people. Through Benaqab, we aim to help create a better environment and a corruption-free society by taking investigative journalism to the next level.”

With successful programmes like Sansani and Red Alert and various path-breaking exposés that have provoked public opinion and forced the corrupt even in the lofty corridors of power to bow to the demands of public interest, STAR News has proved its mettle and capabilities in investigation. Through Benaqab, the channel goes a step ahead in launching a stronger challenge in unmasking the face of corruption and its influence in our daily living.

ABOUT STAR NEWS

STAR News, the first Indian news channel, is a joint venture between ABP TV - a 100 % subsidiary of ABP Pvt. Ltd. – and STAR India Pvt. Ltd., two of the biggest brands in Indian media. The Channel is best defined by a fair and balanced approach that combines prompt reporting with insightful analysis of news and current affairs. Living upto its motto of “Aapko Rakhe Aagey’, STAR News is a people’s channel that focuses on relevant news in a cutting-edge format. Since its conception, the Channel has grown to command a viewership of over 20 million Indian homes. Today, STAR News is available in the Indian subcontinent, South-East Asia, Central Asia, UK, USA and Australia, making it the first and only Global Indian News Channel.

For additional details, please contact

Navin Tauro / Swati Sundareswaran

Vaishnavi Corporate Communications

Tel: 6656 8787 / 8755 / 8743

Fax: 6656 8788