India Reframes the War on Terror

MUMBAI -- Following the attacks here two weeks ago, much of the coverage on local media looks familiar: red banner stripes and logos with such phrases as "26/11 Fight against Terrorism". But it is not quite the same as US networks' "War on Terror".

There are "Indians of the Year", mini-package profiles of the soldiers and others who died during the fighting that occurred the week before last just down the street from my hotel, and live coverage of vigils and demonstrations. Also, the attack on Mumbai has been framed as attack on modernity. So far, again, it looks quite familiar.

But there is something very, very different about the coverage: the entire tone is different.

The attack is also being framed explicitly as an attack on human rights. This means instead of fighting terrorism, security and operations against the attackers are framed as measures to uphold human rights.

And instead of asking everyone to support the government, everyone is asked for their suggestions and their opinions, through email, chat rooms and other media - venues where different journalism organizations are themselves competing to solicit public input.

Not that there isn't also quite a bit of anger, much of it aimed at Pakistan. "How long can Pak deny role?" reads one recurring graphic. "Pak lies exposed,” reads another.

But it feels much different from 9/11. It is almost as if we are about to see a brand new movement, perhaps a social network, centered not around terrorism but around human rights. And once you start from that premise, much changes.