Dr Kiran Deep presents first copy of ‘Viral News: The Day I Named Dawood Ibrahim’ to Punjab Governor

Dr Kiran Deep, Editor-in-Chief of The North News, on Tuesday formally presented the first copy of his book, Viral News: The Day I Named Dawood Ibrahim, to Punjab Governor and Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, at the Governor House.

During the meeting, Dr Kiran Deep apprised the Governor of the central themes of the book, particularly the  drug problem in the region, the changing dynamics of journalism and the increasing influence of social media in shaping public opinion and the flow of information.

The meeting assumes significance against the backdrop of the campaign launched by Governor Gulab Chand Kataria against drug abuse in Punjab and Chandigarh. Dr Kiran Deep discussed how the book highlights the drug menace through his journalistic experiences and investigative reporting, including his work on alleged narcotics networks operating across Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.

The book also examines the transformation of journalism between 2000 and 2026, tracing the transition from landline telephones, handwritten notes and traditional reporting methods to smartphones, livestreaming, artificial intelligence and instant digital communication.

The book explores the idea that virality has emerged as a new news value, with a photograph, video, speech or social media post capable of reaching millions within minutes and influencing public discourse.

It examines the growing role of social media in political communication, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s direct engagement with the public and features speeches and statements by the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar concerning the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.