Symbolic Annihilation in Mizoram Media: An Exploration of Women’s Representation
By Lalnunkimi Colney, Vanlalmuanpuii Chawngthu, and V. Ratnamala
Mizoram, located in Northeast India, has a high proportion of scheduled tribes (94.5%) and operates within a patriarchal societal structure. Despite a sex ratio of 976 females per thousand males in 2011 census, women face significant under-representation in media and public spheres. This study examines how media in Mizoram portrays women using case study methodology and content analysis. The findings reveal a pattern of limited visibility for women in critical areas such as politics and education. Women are predominantly featured in entertainment and beauty contexts, with print media, magazines, and billboards often reinforcing domestic stereotypes. Social media also reflects these biases, with women frequently subjected to derogatory comments. Utilizing UNESCO Gender Sensitive Indicators for Media (GSIM) and Media for Democracy Monitor (MDM) criteria, the study identifies a substantial imbalance in gender representation. The results highlight the need for media reforms to challenge patriarchal norms and improve the portrayal and visibility of women in Mizoram.