National Press Day, observed annually on November 16, commemorates the establishment of the Press Council of India (PCI) in 1966. The PCI was conceived to uphold journalistic ethics and protect the independence of the press. Decades later, this day compels us to assess the state of press freedom in India—a democracy often hailed as the world's largest but increasingly criticized for its shrinking spaces of dissent.
A free press is the cornerstone of democracy, providing the public with the information needed to hold those in power accountable. However, recent global indices paint a grim picture. India's ranking in the World Press Freedom Index has plummeted, reflecting a troubling environment for journalists. From legal intimidation to outright violence, the challenges faced by the press today underscore the widening gap between the ideals of press freedom and the realities on the ground. The erosion of press freedom is not just a journalistic concern; it strikes at the heart of democratic governance.
A disturbing trend in recent years has been the weaponization of defamation laws, sedition charges, and draconian statutes to silence journalists. Independent voices are increasingly drowned out, while a compliant media peddles narratives that favour the establishment. The rise of media conglomerates with vested interests further undermines objectivity, as economic pressures often dictate editorial choices.
Moreover, the proliferation of misinformation has diluted public trust in credible journalism. While social media platforms amplify fake news, independent journalists striving to debunk such narratives often face harassment, both online and offline.
The repercussions of a compromised press are profound. Issues of public interest—be it corruption, environmental degradation, or systemic failures—go underreported. Investigative journalism, once a pillar of accountability, is becoming rare. In such a scenario, the citizenry is deprived of the information necessary to make informed choices, and democracy suffers.
The relevance of National Press Day lies in its call to action. The press must reclaim its role as the fourth pillar of democracy, unafraid to question power and expose truths. Strengthening institutions
like the PCI with greater autonomy and enforcement capabilities is imperative. Furthermore, civil society must champion press freedom, demanding transparency and accountability from both the government and media organizations.
In a world grappling with authoritarian tendencies and disinformation, India must remember that the vibrancy of its democracy is intrinsically tied to the vibrancy of its press. National Press Day should serve not merely as a celebration but as a solemn reminder of the press’s sacred duty to the people.
