FREEDOM OF PRESS IN INDIA

AUTHOR – DURGESH YADAV, STUDENT AT B R AMBEDKAR NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY, SONIPAT

Best Citation – DURGESH YADAV, FREEDOM OF PRESS IN INDIA, ILE FORTNIGHTLY REVIEW (ILE FN), 1 (5) of 2023, Pg. 10-13, APIS – 3920 – 0035 | ISBN – 978-81-964391-3-2.

ABSTRACT

Freedom which is an innate right to all since their birth, has now become part of various countries’ constitutions. It generally means free from all constraints and obstructions. But this notion is varied with the beliefs of the people as it affects various aspects of their life. Freedom isn’t anything that can be seen, touched, or attained. It is a state of mind which means, one can live one’s life as per their own choices and wishes. But, is it practically possible in present society?  Can we grant absolute freedom to all?

Freedom of the press, which is one of the most significant liberty guarantees in democracies to ensure transparency and balance of power, comes in the limelight constantly for both positive and negative reasons. It is an institution that upholds social vigilance against the abuse of power by different authorities. In India, media is considered the fourth pillar of democracy which checks the powers of other institutions. It doesn’t have powers like the other institutions, but it affects their functioning and makes them responsible to the public.

Also, 161st ranking of India in World Press Freedom Index arises concerns for Indian government as it degrades India’s position on a global level. This questioned the credibility of the government and Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian constitution which guaranteed freedom of speech and expression.  Here in this article, I am going to explore the legal framework of freedom of press which is a fundamental right in the Indian Constitution with its growing purviews with the development of the society. How are its areas spread compared to British India and what are the rules mentioned by different international organizations?

Keywords: Article 19(1) (a), Freedom of Press, Freedom of speech and expression, Indian          Constitutions, Restrictions