AbstractPurposeThe evolution of mediascape has transcended traditional barriers in the representation of marginalized voices in the digital era. This transformation driven by internet penetration and rise of social media platforms has provided opportunities for the marginalized voices to be highlighted. But challenges persist in the form of algorithmic biases, echo chambers, corporate control over media content that continue to sideline marginalized communities by controlling the narratives. Historically, the marginalized groups have been the victims of social, economic, political exclusion and portrayal of harmful stereotypes which highlights the importance of inclusive digital media landscape for equitable representation. Systematic exclusion of the marginalized communities in both traditional and digital media in the mainstream conversation exacerbates how dominant narratives overshadow marginalized perspectives. The media landscape in Arunachal Pradesh is still in its nascent phase, it is important to assess its role in amplifying the voices of the marginalized communities.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology applied for the study uses content analysis of selected stories with purposive sampling method from mainstream news platforms and social media news networks.FindingsThe findings reveal even with digitization of the medium and increased accessibility to social media platforms, marginalized communities are still reeling from lack of representation and visibility in the digital realm highlighting the need for structural reforms in the evolving mediascape.Originality/valueThe mainstream media has been accused of misrepresenting, changing narratives, or omitting certain groups altogether demonstrating the dominant power structures. Yet, digitization of the media has provided the marginalized groups different avenues to speak out and challenge the dominant power structures and its narratives and share their experiences,
Koijam et al. (Wed,) studied this question.