Sir: This is with reference to Khaled Ahmed’s review of Chatterji’s book on media wars in the Indo-Pak subcontinent. (Daily Times, February 1) Both Mr Ahmed and Mr Chatterji are absolutely right in pointing out that it is in times of conflict and states of war that the media thrives on sensationalism, as peacetime hardly generates the kind of sound-bites that attract viewers. However, the media on both sides of the border should first and foremost stick to its ethics. Giving up on these ethics means that the credibility of the media is damaged, and outlets that violate these ethics end up being nothing more than mouthpieces for the jingoist-rightwing elements in their respective societies. On the other hand, the media can be a great force for change, peace and reason if it stays within its mandate and remains true to the journalistic code of conduct. One hopes that there is greater media interaction between Pakistan and India, as that is the best way for people to understand and respect each other.SUBHAN NIAZILahore