Media creates and influences public opinion in a democracy. It can influence public opinion for or against any issue. However, the scenario seems to have changed, as it forms public opinion in favour of the highest bidder or those in power. The neutrality it is supposed to showcase has completely disappeared in its quest to bring in more viewers and profits.
The adverse affect this can have on a democracy is that it may influence the populace to not question the government on the basis of its action. It can be basically give a government a free hand especially to those actions that can be detrimental to society.
One example of this is that an economic crisis is downplayed by the media so as to prevent any questioning the government on its functions. Thus, it highlights the selective attitude of the media.
A positive aspect of this can be the recent example of the media finding out about alarming levels of pesticides present in soft drinks. They published reports that indicated a high level of pesticides and made the public aware of the importance of monitoring the quality of these soft drinks in accordance with international quality and safety standards. This was done despite the government unabashedly declaring soft drinks safe to drink. Public outcry over this made the government retract its statement and order an inquiry into the quality standards of the drink.