Freedom of Speech and Expression in Regards to Media Essay Example

freedom of the press, as defined by Merriam Webster's Dictionary, refers to the unrestricted reporting of news by newspapers, magazines, and similar mediums. In today's fast-paced world where information is easily accessible and news spreads quickly, it is vital to reflect on and comprehend the beginnings of the press and its importance in our society and daily lives.

The Introduction of Press in India

When the British arrived in India, they introduced the concept of press.

Following the establishment of Hickey's Bengal Gazette, multiple newspapers emerged in India with the aim of exposing British officials' misconduct. This makes it clear that the history of freedom of speech in the press is closely tied to nationalist movements, as British officials consistently implemented laws to suppress vernacular-language newspapers. Before the 1857 mutiny, newspapers played an active role in mobilizing the masses, providing a platform for people to unite against British atrocities. In response, the "Gagging Act" was passed to restrict and regulate Indian publications' content. This act mandated all Indian publications to obtain a license and prohibited any criticism towards the government.

Aside from the Gagging Act, there were several other acts that were stricter in nature. One example is the Vernacular Press Act of 1878, where the British government had more control over vernacular newspapers to suppress "seditious writing" in publications in oriental languages. Other acts imposed on Indian publications included:

1. The Newspapers (Incitement to Offences) Act of 1908
2. The Press Act of 1910
3. The Prevention of the Seditious Meetings Act of 1911
4. The Criminal Law Amendment Act of 1908
5. The Official Secrets Act as amended in 1903

The Press Act of 1910 had a significant impact on Indian publications. According to a report, nearly 1,000

newspapers were prosecuted under this act, and many editors were charged with sedition for publishing anti-government material. Tensions increased with the Press Emergency Act of 1931. Although the press faced numerous restrictions during the colonial period, some restrictions have been relaxed since then. For example, the media now enjoys greater freedom and plays a vital role as the fourth pillar of democracy. Cases like the Jessica Lal murder case and Arushi Talwar's murder case received justice primarily because the media highlighted them.

Press freedom in India has allowed the media to report news, but there have been instances of misuse that aim to boost their TRP ratings. A notable example is the live coverage of NSG Commandos during the 26/11 attacks, where unintentionally more lives were put at risk despite serving the public. As restrictions increase, some argue that press freedom in India is declining and preventing them from fulfilling their social responsibility. Consequently, significant news often goes unnoticed while less important events like Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan’s wedding receive excessive media attention. The diminishing press freedom is a regrettable situation.

The media's role in connecting the government and citizens is important, but its credibility has declined due to the spread of irrational and false news. This has led to increased restrictions and negative consequences, including threats, accidents faced by journalists, and online harassment.

Reasons for Conducting Research

Online articles and reports discussing limitations on press freedom are available. However, these publications often lack firsthand experiences and perspectives from journalists themselves.

Do they agree with these reports or is it all coming from another person’s perspective. The study aims to explore that facet, which has not been touched by many.

Review

of Literature

The Hindu’s editorial points out that how the journalists are facing heightened threats around the globe and India is no different. India’s place is World Press Freedom Index has fallen down by 2 places and the countries regarded as safe for journalists are on a decline. Women journalists are at the receiving end. Use of anachronistic sedition laws by the government makes it all the more difficult for journalists to report fairly.

In India, both the central government and state governments are engaging in a widespread crackdown on independent journalism. This crackdown includes physical restrictions, withholding of information, and hostile rhetoric from senior officials. TRT World investigates the growing number of attacks and arrests aimed at journalists in the country. Journalists who express their opinions constantly face threats of violence and frequently end up being detained by law enforcement agencies. These actions not only violate their fundamental rights but also infringe upon their constitutional rights to freedom of speech and expression.

The Washington Post article discusses the consequences of a major privacy breach that has impacted over 1 billion Indians. One journalist residing in Chandigarh has been particularly affected by this violation, facing negative repercussions in their personal life. In response to this incident, people have expressed solidarity with the journalist through protests, advocating for recognition and rewards instead of an investigation. Currently, journalists in India are facing various challenges within their profession, as highlighted by several reporters and editors who emphasize the increasing difficulty of their work. Consequently, they now confront charges more severe than defamation suits because of mounting pressure to retract stories.

Although journalists have faced arrests, threats, and information blockades from politicians, they

also face pressure from top media conglomerates with business interests that discourage criticism of the government. Reporters Without Borders discloses the decline in press freedom rankings for various countries, highlighting that Afghanistan and Burma have higher rankings than India. This report examines the changing trends and factors contributing to media backlash and the decline in press freedom index, particularly in European democracies. Such factors include surveillance of sources, both direct and indirect political pressure, threats to media independence, and obstacles in the field.

B. Mugundhan and C. Renuga delve into the issue of press freedom in India, discussing its historical and constitutional roots to gain insights into the present situation. They also highlight instances where the media played a significant role and instances where it demonstrated a lack of maturity by airing sensitive content.

The text discusses various issues related to press freedom in India, including the decline in freedom, threats faced by journalists, and the constitutional perspective. Amit Kumar examines the topic with a focus on cases where press freedom has been limited by the Supreme Court, particularly in relation to judges, national interests, and other matters. The shutdown of Tehelka.com and the harassment of its journalists for exposing a defense ministry scam serves as an example of press freedom violation. Additionally, Sahil Koul investigates the human rights of journalists working in Kashmir.

On numerous occasions, the state of J;K, specifically the Kashmir valley, has experienced both newspaper restrictions and hindrances to journalists' work due to curfew-like situations. This includes the alarming rate at which journalists are being killed, withholding of newspaper advertisements, physical harassment, and limitations on journalists' freedom of movement.