People
Vineet Malhotra wins People’s Award at UK Parliament again
Indian journalist earns rare back to back honour at House of Commons
NEW DELHI: Vineet Malhotra has struck a rare double in the world of journalism, winning the People’s Award 2026 at the House of Commons for the second year in a row.
The recognition, presented at the British Parliament, makes Malhotra the only journalist to clinch the honour in consecutive years, underlining a career built on consistency, credibility and a clear-eyed commitment to storytelling that matters.
“This recognition is a humbling reminder of the responsibility that comes with journalism,” said Malhotra, senior consulting editor and prime-time anchor at NewsX. “At a time when information travels faster than ever and public discourse is often shaped by noise and misinformation, the commitment to truth and meaningful dialogue has never been more important.”
The People’s Award, earlier known as the Political and Public Life Awards, celebrates individuals who embody service, excellence and public impact. Its past roll call includes global figures such as David Cameron, Sadiq Khan, journalist Jon Craig and civil rights leader Jesse Jackson.
With over two decades in the newsroom, Malhotra’s career has spanned some of the industry’s most visible roles. He has served as executive editor at Tiranga TV and Times Now, and has fronted coverage around major global events including the Delhi Commonwealth Games and the London Olympics. His work often straddles geopolitics, sport and public discourse, blending analysis with accessibility.
Reflecting on the win, Malhotra described journalism in India as “a bridge between voices and visions”, adding that the honour strengthens his resolve to pursue stories that inform and engage.
As accolades go, this one does more than add shine to a résumé. It reinforces a simple idea: in an age of noise, clarity still cuts through.
People
BBC set to name Matt Brittin as new director-general
Former Google executive tipped to take top job as leadership shift unfolds
LONDON: The BBC is poised for a leadership reset, with former Google executive Matt Brittin expected to be confirmed as its next director-general, according to a report by Reuters.
Sources cited in the report say Brittin’s appointment was approved at a BBC board meeting on Thursday, with an official announcement likely in the coming days. If confirmed, he would step into one of British media’s most scrutinised roles at a time of shifting audiences and sharper public debate.
Reuters said it could not independently verify the report, while the BBC did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The move follows the planned exit of current director-general Tim Davie, who is set to step down on April 2. In the interim, the broadcaster’s director of nations, Rhodri Talfan Davies, will take over as acting chief until a permanent appointment is formalised.
Davie announced his resignation in November amid criticism of the BBC’s news coverage, particularly over the misleading editing of a video clip involving U.S. President Donald Trump.
For Brittin, if the reports hold true, the job comes with both prestige and pressure. Steering the BBC has never been a quiet gig, and this latest chapter promises no less noise, only higher stakes.
