WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY: FOSTERING TRANSPARENCY AND KEEPING POWER IN CHECK

03 May 2018

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India stands tall as one of the most vibrant democracies in the world. It is the result of the coordination of the four pillars; the Judiciary, the Government, the Legislature and Press that makes this country an example for others. Each of these pillars has been efficiently living up to their roles; however, the Press deserves a special mention. If we are independent of the shackles of the British Raj and breathing in a sovereign nation today, we owe a lot of it to the Press in the country who played a key role in the movement.

It was the free-spirited Press of the pre-independent era that kindled an undercurrent of freedom among citizens of the country. May 3, which is celebrated as World Press Freedom Day holds special significance in the context of the Indian subcontinent. Indian Constitution formally guarantees Freedom of Speech and Expression in Article 19 (1A). In a country like India, which is established on the idea of liberalism, Freedom of Press is indispensable.

The Government of Madhya Pradesh has been making efforts unabatedly for the welfare of the Press. In a recent programme held to celebrate the spirit of journalism, we awarded seasoned journalists for their immense contribution to the world of media. In Madhya Pradesh, we have constantly tried to provide a congenial and healthy atmosphere to people from the media fraternity and encouraged them to write freely and focus on developmental journalism. I consider the feedback shared by them and have been taking necessary steps from time to time.

However, I strongly feel the Press needs to adopt an unbiased outlook to all stories and problems of the society. We know how power brings along an ocean of responsibilities. Journalists should realize this and use their power responsibly, only to usher growth. In the present context, when we often fall into a trap to the world of fake news on social media, it is the duty of the Press to unearth the truth. I believe it is a possibility only when their views are not dogmatic and nonaligned to a particular school of thought.

Having said that, the Press in our country has always exercised its rights to give a voice to the weakling, fight the unjust and give direction to the society. I hope it continues Keeping Power in Check and working as a watchdog fostering transparency, accountability and maintaining a rule of law.