Navika Kumar's absence from Times Navbharat prime time show triggers speculation

The TV news industry has been abuzz with speculations over Navika Kumar's absence from her 8pm prime time show on Times Now Navbharat 'Sawaal Public Ka'.

It is being speculated that the Group Editor-in-Chief of Times Now Navbharat and TimesNow will no longer be hosting the show.

While no confirmations have been received, it is to be noted that some other packaged programmes are being telecast in place of her show.

Some industry leaders have, however, said that Navika has been away due to personal commitments.

e4m reached out to Times Network management and Navika Kumar for confirmation but has got no response till the time of publishing.

Meanwhile, the channel has made two new appointments. While senior journalist Sumit Awasthi has been roped in as Senior Consulting Editor at Times Now Navbharat and hosts "Chakravyuh" at 7 pm, Shamsher Singh has also been appointed Managing Editor - Digital (Hindi and regional languages) at Times Network.

Industry insiders have also shared that Navika Kumar's contract has recently been renewed for another three years. In addition to her responsibilities at Times Now, she will continue to work closely with Group MD Vineet Jain at the group level and contribute to the group's overall growth.

It's worth noting that Navika Kumar is one of the prominent faces of the Times Network and serves as Group Editor-in-Chief of Times Now and Times Now Navbharat. The show "Sawaal Public Ka" airs on Times Now Navbharat and has been one of her flagship programs. On this show, she discusses national politics and current affairs. However, her recent absence from the show has led to speculation within the media industry.

Navika Kumar is active on the English news channel Times Now and has been hosting the popular prime-time debate show 'The Newshour' for a long time. Her journey in anchoring started in 2014 with a 7pm show at Times Now. 

Kumar has been active in TV journalism for nearly two decades and has distinguished herself with her sharp anchoring and strong grasp of political issues. 

Times Network has not yet issued any official statement on the ongoing discussions surrounding the Hindi show and it will be worth following the developments regarding the show and Navika Kumar's role.