Abhinav Pandey is a prominent Indian journalist known for his extensive career in various reputed media houses and his recent foray into independent digital journalism. His career has spanned more than a decade, including significant roles at ABP News, The Lallantop, and most recently founding The News Pinch, a digital news platform. Throughout his journey, he has covered major political events and elections, gaining recognition for his insightful reportage and engagement with contemporary Indian political and social issues. However, he has also been involved in controversies, notably a viral live stream incident where he was overheard making unprofessional remarks about fellow journalists, which sparked widespread debate about media ethics.
Career Trajectory
Abhinav Pandey started his career in journalism in May 2015 with ABP News, where he worked as a journalist and took on roles such as assistant producer and associate producer. His background includes a postgraduate degree in mass communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), and his early education was in Allahabad (now Prayagraj). He was with ABP News for several years, developing his skills in reporting and production.
In January 2022, Pandey joined The Lallantop, a popular Hindi-language digital news outlet, where he served as an associate editor. During his tenure, he covered significant political developments including the 2022 Gujarat Legislative Assembly elections and the Ram Mandir inauguration in Ayodhya in 2024. His role at The Lallantop combined field reporting with hosting various shows and managing digital content including vlogs, notably documenting political tours such as Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra in Kashmir. He was recognized as Employee of the Quarter in February 2023.
By August 2025, he transitioned from The Lallantop and co-founded The News Pinch along with colleagues Saurabh Tripathi and Vinay Sultan. This platform aims to bring independent, digital-first journalism directly to audiences, emphasizing editorial independence and innovative storytelling. His move reflects a growing trend among journalists seeking creative freedom outside mainstream media houses. Before his ABP News days, his profile also lists past experience with Press Trust of India (PTI) and The Pioneer newspaper, compiling over two decades of journalistic work across print and digital platforms.
Controversies
Abhinav Pandey faced a major controversy in November 2025 when a YouTube live stream blooper went viral. Unaware that the live stream was still ongoing, he was overheard using abusive language and making derogatory remarks about fellow journalists including Chitra Tripathi and Rubika Liyaquat. This incident led to widespread criticism from social media users and the media fraternity, raising questions about professionalism and accountability in the digital news space.
Following the backlash, Pandey issued a public apology acknowledging the inappropriate language used in the clip, clarifying that the remarks were not indicative of any personal enmity but were a lapse in judgment. The episode sparked broader discussions on the conduct expected of journalists and the responsibilities they bear as public figures and news disseminators.
Personal and Professional Profile
Education: Post graduation in Mass Communication from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Allahabad; earlier studies in Mass Communication and Computer Science from Lucknow University.
Media Experience: Over 20 years in journalism including senior roles at ABP News, The Lallantop, Press Trust of India, and The News Pinch.
Coverage: Extensive political reporting including state elections, major national events, and grassroots political movements.
Recognition: Awarded Employee of the Quarter at The Lallantop in 2023.
Social Media Presence: Active on platforms like Twitter and Instagram under the handle @Abhinav_Pan, with significant followers engaging with his journalistic content.
Interesting Facts
Abhinav has managed both production and on-field journalism roles, showcasing a versatile skillset.
He co-founded The News Pinch aiming to bypass traditional media filters and bring unfiltered news to audiences.
Pandey’s reportage includes critical coverage of political tours and electoral processes, connecting deeply with grassroots issues.
Despite the controversy, he remains a recognized voice in Indian journalism advocating for truthful, engaging storytelling.
His viral outburst incident sparked a national conversation on media ethics and professional conduct in digital journalism.
FAQs about Abhinav Pandey
What media houses has Abhinav Pandey worked with?
He has worked with ABP News, The Lallantop, Press Trust of India, and co-founded The News Pinch.What controversy is associated with Abhinav Pandey?
In 2025, a leaked live stream video showed him using abusive language about fellow journalists, for which he later apologized.What is The News Pinch?
It is a digital news platform co-founded by Pandey that focuses on independent, digital-first journalism.What kind of education does Abhinav Pandey have?
He has a postgraduate degree in mass communication from Indian Institute of Mass Communication and earlier studied Mass Communication and Computer Science in Lucknow University.Has Abhinav Pandey received any awards?
Yes, he was recognized as Employee of the Quarter at The Lallantop in 2023.
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- https://paharipatrika.in/viral-video-journalist-abhinav-pandey-makes-controversial-statement-about-chitra-tripathi-sparks-uproar-on-social-media/
- https://www.facebook.com/vivek.srivastav.journalist/videos/journalist-abhinav-pandey-says-sorry-after-live-stream-controversyviral-reels-ab/813607611593950/

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