Context:
N. Ram, Director of The Hindu Publishing Group, expressed concern over growing threats to freedom of speech and expression in India and globally during the 69th annual celebration of the Hindu Office and National Press Employees’ Union.
Key Highlights / Details:
- Concerns Raised
- He warned that journalists face increasing suppression and intimidation.
- Cited global examples, including media suppression in India and the U.S.
- Expressed concern over misuse of sedition laws and defamation cases against journalists.
- Digital Age Challenges
- Highlighted declining media independence due to corporate and political pressures.
- Advertising-based journalism model is weakening ethical reporting.
- Need for editorial autonomy stressed.
- Future of Journalism
- Emphasized transformation from print to digital platforms.
- Called for responsible journalism rooted in truth, ethics, and public interest.
- Warned against fake news and algorithm-driven misinformation.
- Ethics and Democracy
- Freedom of speech is essential for democracy and accountability.
- Need to protect press freedom as part of constitutional rights.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Article 19(1)(a): Freedom of speech and expression.
- Reasonable Restrictions – Article 19(2) (e.g., public order, sovereignty).
- Press Freedom Index 2025 – India ranked low globally.
- Defamation (IPC Sections 499–500) & Sedition (IPC 124A – currently under review).
Relevant Mains Points:
- Role of free press in democracy.
- Challenges: fake news, media monopoly, paid news, censorship.
- Balance between freedom of expression and responsible journalism.
- Need for press regulation reforms.