Ground Zero Reporting and Its Significance in Journalism

Guest Column

Tirthankar Das

Correspondent, Dainik Bhaskar, Kolkata and West Bengal 

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This is reporting the way I like it... in the field, gritty and aggressive. - Chris Hansen

My career kicked off with ground reporting. I used to associate myself with being at the scene and gathering facts, talking to people, and then reporting what they themselves had seen. It was the whole race for stories-corroborate facts and bring the real picture before the eyes of the readers.

I graduated seven years ago, and these years have been witness to a drastic change in how budding journalists, especially those junior to me, have approached this profession. During my college days, of course, we had mobile phones and social media, but the operations of WhatsApp groups were highly minimal. Today, in 2025, everything runs through WhatsApp groups-politicos groups to police groups, local area groups to source groups! While all of it certainly helps in the speedy exchange of information, somewhere, the soul of journalism is getting harmed.

The physical act of going to the scene and reporting from the field seems to be disappearing. An increasing number of reporters count on forwarded messages or unverified information to make news without cross-checking. This is dangerous. Such false information spreads like fire, and by the time there is some sort of correction in place, an irrevocable harm is done.

Real journalism is ground-based: it takes place on the streets, in the homes of people involved, at crime scenes, in hospitals, and at police stations. Events occur everywhere, and if a journalist is on the ground, he has the capacity to present not just one perspective of a story but several. He can see for himself the events, feelings, attitudes, or even very few details that clarify the incident, perceive the situation better, and might even see one or two angles that nobody else thought were there.

Journalism is not sharing information irresponsibly on WhatsApp and social media posts. Every profession has its pros and cons, and journalism is no exception. Indeed, it is a demanding profession: physically, mentally and in terms of time; it requires learning with every accomplished step. However, this is exactly what makes journalism worth living and truly powerful.

While going to a scene, journalists may collect the necessary audio bites; witness reactions; and get stories from multiple persons concerned. A story has a multitude of versions, and one can only feel the difference of storytelling if they have been there on the ground. It could be a matter of a murder, a political protest, a natural calamity, or any crime. Being there is what changes the storyline.

On-ground reporting is a somewhat taxing job, physically and mentally. But one remembers that their job is to serve the society, to be a responsible citizen informing the public regarding verified, balanced, and factual news, rather than becoming some sort of social media influencer or content creator.

I feel that the new generation of journalists should recognize that real journalism is on the ground. The profession requires courage, dedication, and the hunger to look for stories right where they unfold. That is what has been maintaining journalism as a credible discipline and able institution-a force that can make or break narratives and can really help the nation.

Essential Ground Reporting Tips for Young Reporters 

 

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Know What’s Happening Before You Start

Before you even take out your phone or camera to record videos or grab reactions, spend a few minutes observing the scene. Every time you reach a reporting spot, give yourself 5-10 minutes to quietly take in the environment, understand the mood, and assess what’s happening. Often, what seems like a straightforward incident at first glance may have 3-4 different angles that become visible only when you pay attention.

Talk to Locals First, Officials Later

Your first reactions should always come from the ground — from people who witnessed the incident, not from police or administrative officials. Locals will often tell you details no one else will, and this will give your story depth. After gathering those voices, you must take official versions as well, even if you suspect their responses are incomplete. Including official statements makes your story balanced and credible.

Be Careful With Sensitivity in Language

In situations like clashes or violence, be mindful of the words you use. Even if you know it’s a communal clash, never label it as communal violence until there’s an official confirmation from the administration. Use neutral terms like “clash between two groups” to avoid unnecessarily sensitising the issue. Responsible language is a key duty of a ground reporter.

Take All Political Reactions

Remember — every incident has multiple perspectives. If you’re taking the reaction of one political party or leader, make sure to take responses from other parties involved as well. Presenting a balanced view strengthens your report and reflects journalistic fairness.

Build Your Source Network

This is one of the most valuable long-term habits. Whenever you go for ground reporting, talk to everyone — from tea stall owners and rickshaw pullers to local residents and shopkeepers. Share your contact number and encourage them to inform you about any incidents in the future. Local people often become more reliable sources than official contacts. A strong, grassroots network is the foundation of effective reporting.