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These notes are being compiled to help the students for educational purposes during Covid-19 pandemic. These are based on notes that are discussed in the class.
Introduction
“Give me the liberty to know, to utter,
and to argue freely according to conscience, above all liberties”.
-John Milton
The essence of free speech is the ability to think and
speak freely and to obtain information from others through publications and
public discourse without fear of retribution, restriction, or repression by the
government. It is through free speech, people could come together to achieve
political influence, to strengthen their morality, and to help others to become
moral and enlightened citizens. The freedom of speech is regarded as the first
condition of liberty. It occupies a preferred and important position in the
hierarchy of the liberty, it is truly said about the freedom of speech that it
is the mother of all other liberties. Article 19(1)(a) of the
Constitution of India guarantees to all its citizens the right to freedom of
speech and expression. The law states that, “all citizens shall have the right
to freedom of speech and expression”. Under Article 19(2) “reasonable
restrictions can be imposed on the exercise of this right for certain purposes.
Any limitation on the exercise of the right under Article 19(1)(a) not
falling within the four corners of Article 19(2) cannot be
valid.
The freedom of speech under Article 19(1)(a) includes
the right to express one’s views and opinions at any issue through any medium,
e.g. by words of mouth, writing, printing, picture, film, movie
etc. It thus includes the freedom of communication and the right
to propagate or publish opinion. But this right is subject to reasonable
restrictions being imposed under Article 19(2). Free expression
cannot be equated or confused with a license to make unfounded and
irresponsible allegations against the judiciary.
It is important to note that a restriction on the
freedom of speech of any citizen may be placed as much by an action of the
State as by its inaction. Thus, failure on the part of the State to guarantee
to all its citizens irrespective of their circumstances and the class to which
they belong, the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression would
constitute a violation of Article 19(1)(a). The fundamental
right to freedom of speech and expression is regarded as one of the
most basic elements of a healthy democracy for it allows its citizens to
participate fully and effectively in the social and political process of the
country. In fact, the freedom of speech and expression gives greater
scope and meaning to the citizenship of a person extending the concept from the
level of basic existence to giving the person a political and social life.
Why to protect freedom of speech?
Freedom of speech offers human being to express his
feelings to other, but this is not the only reason; purpose to protect the
freedom of speech. There could be more reasons to protect these essential
liberties. There are four important justifications for freedom of speech –
1) For the discovery of truth by open
discussion - According to it, if restrictions on speech are tolerated,
society prevents the ascertainment and publication of accurate facts and
valuable opinion. That is to say, it assists in the discovery of truth.
2) Free speech as an aspect of self- fulfillment and development – freedom of speech is an integral aspect of each individual’s right to self-development and self-fulfillment. Restriction on what we are allowed to say and write or to hear and read will hamper our personality and its growth. It helps an individual to attain self-fulfillment.
3) For expressing belief and political attitudes - freedom of speech provides opportunity to express one’s belief and show political attitudes. It ultimately results in the welfare of the society and state. Thus, freedom of speech provides a mechanism by which it would be possible to establish a reasonable balance between stability and social change.
4) For active participation in democracy – democracy is most important feature of today’s world. Freedom of speech is there to protect the right of all citizens to understand political issues so that they can participate in smooth working of democracy. That is to say, freedom of speech strengthens the capacity of an individual in participating in decision-making.
Thus we find that protection of freedom of speech is very much essential. Protection of freedom of speech is important for the discovery of truth by open discussion, for self- fulfillment and development, for expressing belief and political attitudes, and for active participation in democracy.
Elements of Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression
* The right is available only to a citizen of India
and not to a foreign national.
* The freedom of speech under Article 19 (1) (a)
includes the right to express one’s view and opinions at any issue through any
medium i.e., word of mouth, writing, printing picture, film etc.
* This right is however, not absolute and it allows
the government to frame laws to impose reasonable restrictions in the interest
of sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the state, defamation and
incitement to an offense etc.
* These restrictions on the freedom of speech of
any citizen maybe imposed as much as an action of state as by its inaction.
Thus, failure on part of the state to guarantee this right would constitute a
violation of Article 19 (1) (a).
Examples that explained Freedom of speech and expression:
1. Romesh Thapar vs. State of Madras
The petitioner Mr. Thapar was a well-known communist
of his time and was very sceptical of the policies of the then Prime Minister
Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, especially his foreign policy. He published a few
articles in his weekly English magazine called Crossroads that
expressed his scepticism in this regard. he was writing these articles, a
communist movement was gathering steam in parts of Madras and the authorities
felt that the petitioner’s articles will not be helpful with regard to stopping
the enthusiasm among the members of the said communist movement. In the month
of March 1950, the Government of Madras by virtue of an order imposed a ban on
the entry and circulation of the magazine in these areas. The order was issued
pursuant to Section 9(1-A) of the Madras Maintenance of Public Order Act, 1949
which empowered the government to prohibit the circulation, sale or
distribution of the journal in certain parts of the province of Madras for the
purpose of ensuring ‘public safety’ or preserving ‘public order.’ Aggrieved by
this government order Mr. Thapar approached the Supreme Court with the
contention that the impugned order infringed upon his fundamental right to
free speech and expression.
Patanjali Shastri rightly observed that Freedom of Speech and of Press lay at the foundation of all democratic organizations for without free political discussion, no public education, so essential for the proper functioning of the process of government is possible
2. Indian Express vs. Union of India
This case talked about art 19(1)(a) which is the
freedom of expression and the reasonable restrictions covered under art 19(2)
of the Constitution of India. The Supreme Court asked the Central Government to
review its taxation policy to decide if it’s overburdening the newspapers. It
was argued by the petitioners that because of the import duty, the price of the
newspaper was bound to get increased and a fall in the circulation of the same.
The Supreme Court was of the opinion that the government can impose taxes on
the publication but within the reasonable restrictions mentioned in art 19(2)
so, it does not violate their freedom of expression. The Court also said that
as the petitioner and the respondent both failed in proving the excessive
nature of tax then it now becomes the duty of the government to review the
taxation policy.
It has been held that the Press plays a very significant role in the democratic machinery the courts have duty to uphold the freedom of press and invalidate all laws and administrative actions that abridge that freedom.
3. Maneka Gandhi vs. Union of India
The petitioner Maneka Gandhi's passport was issued on
1st June 1976 as per the Passport Act of 1967. On 2nd July 1977, the
Regional Passport Office (New Delhi) ordered her to surrender her passport. The
petitioner was also not given any reason for this arbitrary and unilateral
decision of the External Affairs Ministry, citing public interest. The
petitioner approached the Supreme Court by invoking its writ jurisdiction and
contending that the State's act of impounding her passport was a direct assault
on her Right of Personal Liberty as guaranteed by Article 21. It is pertinent
to mention that the Supreme Court in Satwant Singh Sawhney v.
Ramarathnam[2] held that right to travel abroad is well within the ambit of
Article 21, although the extent to which the Passport Act diluted this
particular right was unclear. The authorities, however, answered that the
reasons are not to be specified in the "interest of the general
public". In response, the petitioner filed a writ petition under Art 32
for violation of fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of
the Constitution alleging that Section 10(3)(c) of the Act was ultra vires the
constitution.
The Supreme Court considered whether Article 19 (1) (a) of the Indian Constitution was confined to Indian territory and held that the freedom of speech and expression is not confined to National boundaries.
4. S. Rangarajan vs. Jagjivan Ram
The case becomes important in the context of state
governments demanding ban on the release of the film Padmaavat citing law and
order problem despite Film getting clearance from CBFC. The Court criticized
the State and emphasized that freedom of expression cannot be suppressed on
account of threat of demonstration and processions or threats of violence. It
is the duty of the State to protect the freedom of expression since it is a
liberty guaranteed against the State. Therefore the State cannot plead its
inability to handle the hostile audience problem. As censorship is permitted
only on the grounds under Article 19(2).In deciding the grounds SC gave tests
for standard and deletion of only those content which affects morality of the
society and not the ban of entire film, moreover only those content are
relevant which affects the conscious of society and not the public order.
Opens criticisms of government policies and operations is not a ground for restricting expression. Intolerance is as much dangerous to democracy as to the person himself.
4. Bennet Coleman and Co. v. Union of
India
In this case, the validity of the Newsprint Control Order was challenged. The Order fixed the maximum number of pages which a newspaper could publish, and this was said to be violative of Article 19(1) (a) of the Indian Constitution. The government raised the contention that fixing the newsprint would help in the growth of small newspapers as well as prevent monopoly in the trade. It also justified its order of reduction of page level on the ground that big dailies devote a very high percentage of space to advertisements, and therefore, the cut in pages will not affect them. The Court held the newsprint policy to be an unreasonable restriction, and observed that the policy abridged the petitioner’s right of freedom of speech and expression. The Court also held that the fixation of page limit will have a twofold effect- first, it will deprive the petitioners of their economic viability, and second, it will restrict the freedom of expression as compulsorily reducing the page limit will lead to reduction of circulation and area of coverage for news and views.
5. Hamdard Dawakhana v. Union of India
The validity of the Drug and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisement) Act, which put restrictions on advertisement of drugs in certain cases and prohibited advertisements of drugs having magic qualities for curing diseases was challenged on the ground that the restriction on advertisement abridged the freedom. The Supreme Court held that an advertisement is no doubt a form of speech but every advertisement was held to be dealing with commerce or trade and not for propagating ideas.
6. A. Abbas v. Union of India
The case is one of the firsts in which the issue of
prior censorship of films under Article 19(2) came into consideration of the
Supreme Court of India. Under the Cinematograph Act, 1952, films are divided
into two categories- ‘U’ films for unrestricted exhibition, and ‘A’ films that
can be shown to adults only. The petitioner’s film was refused the ‘U’
certificate, and he challenged the validity of censorship as violative of his
fundamental right of freedom of speech and expression. He contended that no
other form of speech and expression was subject to such prior restraint, and
therefore, he demanded equality of treatment with such forms. The Court,
however, held that motion pictures are able to stir emotions more deeply than
any other form of art.
Grounds of Restrictions
It is necessary to maintain and preserve freedom of
speech and expression in a democracy, so also it is necessary to place some
restrictions on this freedom for the maintenance of social order, because no
freedom can be absolute or completely unrestricted. Accordingly, under Article
19(2) of the Constitution of India, the State may make a law imposing
“reasonable restrictions” on the exercise of the right to freedom of speech and
expression “in the interest of” the public on the following grounds: Clause (2)
of Article 19 of Indian constitution contains the grounds on which restrictions
on the freedom of speech and expression can be imposed:
1) Security of State: The term
"security of state" refers only to serious and aggravated forms of
public order e.g. rebellion, waging war against the State, insurrection and not
ordinary breaches of public order and public safety, e.g. unlawful assembly,
riot, affray. Thus speeches or expression on the part of an individual, which
incite to or encourage the commission of violent crimes, such as, murder are
matters, which would undermine the security of State.
2) Friendly relations with foreign states: In the present global world, a country has to maintain good and friendly relationship with other countries. Something which has potential to affect such relation ship should be checked by government. Keeping this thing in mind, this ground was added by the constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1951. The object behind the provision is to prohibit unrestrained malicious propaganda against a foreign friendly state, which may jeopardize the maintenance of good relations between India, and that state.
3) Public Order: Next restriction prescribed by constitution is to maintain public order. This ground was added by the Constitution (First Amendment) Act. 'Public order' is an expression of wide connotation and signifies "that state of tranquility which prevails among the members of political society as a result of internal regulations enforced by the Government which they have established." Here it is pertinent to look into meaning of the word “Public order. Public order is something more than ordinary maintenance of law and order. 'Public order' is synonymous with public peace, safety and tranquility. Anything that disturbs public tranquility or public peace disturbs public order. Thus communal disturbances and strikes promoted with the sole object of accusing unrest among workmen are offences against public order. Public order thus implies absence of violence and an orderly state of affairs in which citizens can peacefully pursue their normal avocation of life. Public order also includes public safety. Thus creating internal disorder or rebellion would affect public order and public safety. But mere criticism of government does not necessarily disturb public order.
4) Decency or morality: The way
to express something or to say something should be decent one. It should not
affect the morality of the society adversely. Our constitution has taken care
of this view and inserted decency and morality as a ground. The words 'morality
or decency' are words of wide meaning. Sections 292 to 294 of the Indian Penal
Code provide instances of restrictions on the freedom of speech and expression
in the interest of decency or morality. These sections prohibit the sale or
distribution or exhibition of obscene words, etc. in public places. No fix
standard is laid down till now as to what is moral and indecent. The standard
of morality varies from time to time and from place to place.
5) Contempt of Court: In a
democratic country Judiciary plays very important role. In such situation it
becomes essential to respect such institution and its order. Thus, restriction
on the freedom of speech and expression can be imposed if it exceeds the
reasonable and fair limit and amounts to contempt of court. According to the
Section 2 'Contempt of court' may be either 'civil contempt' or 'criminal contempt.'
But now, Indian contempt law was amended in 2006 to make “truth” a defence.
However, even after such amendment a person can be punished for the statement
unless they were made in public interest. Again in Indirect Tax Practitioners
Assn. vs R.K.Jain, it was held by court that, “Truth based on the facts should
be allowed as a valid defence if courts are asked to decide contempt
proceedings relating to contempt proceeding relating to a speech or an
editorial or article”. The qualification is that such defence should not
cover-up to escape from the consequences of a deliberate effort to scandalize
the court.
6) Defamation: Ones’ freedom, be it
of any type, must not affect the reputation or status another person. A person
is known by his reputation more than his wealth or any thing else. Constitution
considers it as ground to put restriction on freedom of speech. Basically, a
statement, which injures a man's reputation, amounts to defamation. Defamation
consists in exposing a man to hatred, ridicule, or contempt. The civil law in
relating to defamation is still uncodified in India and subject to certain
exceptions.
7) Incitement to an offence: This ground
was also added by the constitution (First Amendment) Act, 1951. Obviously,
freedom of speech and expression cannot confer a right to incite people to
commit offence. The word 'offence' is defined as any act or omission made
punishable by law for the time being in force.
8) Sovereignty and integrity of India: To
maintain sovereignty and integrity of a state is prime duty of government.
Taking into it into account, freedom of speech and expression can be restricted
so as not to permit any one to challenge sovereignty or to permit any one to
preach something which will result in threat to integrity of the country.
Censorship or Restrictions on Freedom of
Speech And Expression
In a modern State, absolute and unrestricted
individual rights do not exist, because they cannot exist. Freedom is more
purposeful if it is coupled with responsibility. Like any other freedom, the
freedom of speech and expression has to be balanced with other social values.
The liberty of the individual to do as he pleases even in innocent matters is
not absolute. It must frequently yield to common good.Freedom of the press has
to be reconciled with the collective interest of the society, which is known as
“public interest”.
The reconciliation of the contest between power and
liberty, between the claims of political society and the interests of
individual is a perennial problem of political society which curiously persists
irrespective of any difference in the form of Government. So, there are certain
permitted prior restraints and restrictions on the freedom of the press, in the
collective interest of society. Prior restraint means any kind of interference
or control exercised by the State over the freedom of the press at any stage
prior to publication of the alleged offending material.
Conclusion
Expression through speech is one of the basic
guarantees provided by civil society. However in modern world Right to freedom
of speech and expression is not limited to express ones’ view through words but
it also includes circulating one's views in writing or through audiovisual
instrumentalities, through advertisements and through any other communication
channel. It also comprises of right to information, freedom of press etc. It is
a right to express and self realization. Two big democracies of world i.e.
America and India have remarkably protected this right. As far as India is
concerned, this important right is mentioned in Article 19(1) (a), which falls
in fundamental right category. Indian courts have always placed a broad
interpretation on the value and content of Article 19(1) (a), making it
subjective only to the restrictions permissible under Article 19(2).
The United States has a complex First Amendment
jurisprudence that varies the protection offered free speech according to form.
Similarly, India developed its own free speech jurisprudence that applies a
"reasonable restrictions" test based on eight mentioned restrictions.
The real difference in freedom of speech enjoyed in the United States and India
is a question of degree. This difference in degree is attributable to the
reasonable restrictions provision and the moral standard of the communities.
https://blog.ipleaders.in/freedom-speech-expression-constitution-india/?amp=1
https://byjus.com/free-ias-prep/romesh-thapar-case-1950-sc-judgements/
Compiled and Edited by
Anjita
Sharma
Batch of
2023
B.A
(Hons.) Journalism
Lady
Shri Ram College for Women, New Delhi
24 comments:
Freedom of expression is the core of journalism that enable the pursuit of truth and questioning of authority. However, with the rise of digital platforms, there has been an unprecedented spread of misinformation and fake news highlighting the need for ethical journalism. Indian youth, the largest in the world, carry massive responsibility to balance their views with courage and authenticity. Many of them are already using creative platforms to challenge the biased mainstream media and highlight local and cultural issues. Through proper fact-checking they must ensure that media remains a meaningful space in a world that is continuously distracted.
The youth are that part of the population which refuses to settle, challenges the system, and demands better. They are driven by enthusiasm and the hunger to make a difference. In a country like India, where young people form one of the largest chunks of the population, they can play a major role in bringing journalism back to life and ethics. They are aware of the media’s declining credibility, thus digitally literate youth can use their skills to spread truth, fight misinformation, and restore journalism’s integrity. As people grow older, they seek stability ,but youth thrives on challenge and questioning wrong. This spirit in Indian youth can be the driving force that restores ethics, integrity, and honesty in journalism.
Young people in India have a big role in making journalism truthful and responsible. In today’s world, where news spreads fast, they can stand up against false information and share stories that are real, fair, and meaningful. Freedom of expression is their right, but using it wisely means speaking with honesty and respect. By avoiding sensational headlines and focusing on facts, they can help create media that people trust. Youth can also bring fresh ideas, highlight unheard voices, and promote unity through their work. In this way, they are not just reporting news they are helping build a better society.
In today's fast moving digital world young people in India have more power than ever to influence what we see, hear and believe, with that power comes responsibility. Freedom of expression is a right, but using it wisely is a choice, India's youth can lead the way by asking tough questions, checking facts and refusing to spread hate or fake news whether they are future journalist or just active voices online, their choices matter, by standing up for truth, fairness and empathy young people can help build a media space that informs, unites and uplifts, one that truly serves the people.
“ Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a Government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” — Thomas Jefferson.
Media — the Fourth Estate in Indian Democracy — holds exceptional capabilities in the present day to make or tarnish the reputation of an individual or organization. With such exceptional ability of media in the present day, it becomes pertinent to look into the freedom of press in the nation, expectations of responsible journalism and the ethical issues cropping up with regards to journalism.
A press which is puppets in the hands of the government will never be able to serve the true purpose of journalism and this points out the necessity of free press in a democracy like India.
Though the Constitution protects the freedom of press, the full implications of this freedom has never been worked out either by the media as a headspring of information for which a greater freedom of press is desired.
Ethics act as a professional guideline and a moral compass for journalists so they can continue to provide truthful information and create awareness about crucial issues. These ensure that the news that reaches the public is credible, unbiased, and in the best interest of society.
The youth of India, without a doubt, plays a crucial role in shaping ethical journalism. Their active participation in media consumption and production, holding media accountable, and promoting responsible digital citizenship are all a part of empowering them to drive positive changes within the media landscape. While challenges like fake news, biases, unequal representation, and declining trust in mainstream media continue to exist, younger audiences are looking for outlets that focus on journalistic ethics and contribute to the rise of a new, independent media.
(— Chandrani Mondal)
India’s youth have a very big role to play in shaping journalism today. With so much news flowing through social media and digital platforms, young people can speak up against fake news, call out bias, and push for fair and honest reporting . Freedom of expression gives them the power to share their views, but using it responsibly helps build trust and credibility. By valuing truth over sensationalism, they can inspire a media culture that respects both democracy and the people it serves. In many ways, the future of ethical journalism rests in the hand of the youth.
By Jiya Raj
India's youth is crucial in shaping ethical journalism by finding a balance between freedom of expression and social responsibility. As they are digitally savvy, they can promote media literacy which can avoid misinformation from spreading around. Through constructive criticism, they can hold journalists and media outlets accountable on social media and demand for clear and unbiased journalism which will increase public trust and confidence in media.
By Priya dey
Freedom of expression gives everyone the right to share ideas, but it should be used responsibly. Today, India’s youth can strongly influence ethical journalism by questioning false news, demanding fairness and promoting balanced reporting. With their active presence on social media, they can spread awareness, encourage respectful discussions and push for truthful storytelling by making sure that the information is fact-checked. By practicing responsibility along with free speech, the youth can help build a media space that supports democracy and reflects honesty.
The Role of India’s Youth in Shaping Ethical Journalism
The youth of India is one of the most vocal portions of its masses. Their role shapes a large part of what journalism looks like today in the country. With the rise of digital journalism , it is paramount that news published is verified, unbiased and ethical in its presentation. The youth participate in active discussions, hold the government and judiciary accountable by demanding a free press, bring out suppressed voices and snubbed-out stories etc., whilst adhering to the provisions of the Constitution. Their voices ensure and safeguard our freedom and awareness in today’s dynamic day and age.
Approximately 8 decades of independence but are we really free? ------- is the question that lingers my mind, not just on Independence Day, but each day. This is the question that needs to be asked when defamation suits are used by political figures and big fat corporations or when Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code is misused against journalists, activists and students who criticize the seating government. For Instance, Kunal Kamra, a famous Indian Standup Comedian, whose studio was vandalized after his comedy special 'Ek Naya Bharat' was released. Another case of Mr. Rajneesh Gangwar, a School Teacher in Bareilly, who recited a poetry 'Tum Kanwar Leke Mat Jana' and 3 continuous FIRs were filed against him.
Media ---- is said to be the fourth pillar of democracy.
Media, who has deteriorated its reputation by compromising credibility and reliability hindering public trust. Shifting from a watchdog to a lapdog, it has failed miserably.
Ethical Journalism, in today's world, requires courage, fairness and responsibility --- qualities that India's youth are filled with. By defending freedom of expression while exercising restraint, they can ensure journalism remains a tool of democracy rather than a weapon of division.
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right in India, but it comes with the duty of using it responsibly. Media has the power to influence society, so ethical journalism is essential. However, challenges like fake news, bias, and sensationalism affect its credibility. Here, youth play an important role. As informed readers and future journalists, they can demand accuracy, fairness, and transparency. By promoting fact-checking, digital literacy, and responsible social media use, they can fight misinformation. Youth voices also amplify marginalized communities. Thus, India’s youth combine their rights with social responsibility to ensure journalism remains truthful and ethical.
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right in India, but it comes with the duty of using it responsibly. Media has the power to influence society, so ethical journalism is essential. However, challenges like fake news, bias, and sensationalism affect its credibility. Here, youth play an important role. As informed readers and future journalists, they can demand accuracy, fairness, and transparency. By promoting fact-checking, digital literacy, and responsible social media use, they can fight misinformation. Youth voices also amplify marginalized communities. Thus, India’s youth combine their rights with social responsibility to ensure journalism remains truthful and ethical.
By Khushi
By- Geet
Freedom of expression, though fundamental under Article 19, is not absolute, it carries the responsibility of truth, respect, and public interest. In today’s digital age, India’s youth play a decisive role in shaping ethical journalism by questioning biases, resisting sensationalism, and promoting fact-based reporting. By valuing both freedom and responsibility, young journalists and consumers can ensure media remains a tool for accountability and democracy, not manipulation or division.
Freedom of speech is one of the most important fundamental rights endowed to the citizens by the constitution of India. As rightly said by George Washington, "If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter." This is where journalism arrives and helps us in exercising our social responsibility of 'freedom of speech' correctly. The youth of the country must always stand by truth, accuracy, clarity, precision, what is correct, and in the best interest for the society at large. The youth should pinpoint the wrong and must never become the supporter of false propaganda. By doing so, the youth of the country will be able to uphold and practice ethical journalism in the country.
India's youth can play a significant role in reviving journalism and ethics in a nation like India, where they make up one of the largest segments of the population. With their strong presence on digital platforms, they have the power to question fake news, call out bias, and stand by reliable reporting. Using freedom of expression responsibly, they can tell stories that respect people, highlight diverse voices, and move beyond exaggeration. By valuing honesty and empathy, young people can help build journalism that not only informs society but also inspires trust and strengthens the fabric of the nation.
-Srija Minz
Freedom of expression is the fourth stone piller of democracy but it cames along with social responsibility as well. The media holds the power to influence and shope public opinion. Therefore in today's digital era, the youth holds immense in shaping of ethical journalistic practice, by questioning biases, holding media accountable, advocating for honesty. By valuing accuracy and truth, the young demographic ensures the freedom of expression and journalism are both used ethically and constructivel .
By Shagun yadav
Youth indeed plays a vital role in promoting and preserving ethical journalism by championing honesty, fairness, and accountability. In India, student-led platforms like “The Print’s Campus Voices” and youth reporters at “Youth Ki Awaaz” responsibly put forth social issues and counter mis/disinformation. By highlighting marginalized voices and fact-checking viral claims, they build trust amongst the audience. With digital fluency and courage to question authority, young Indian journalists shape a transparent, inclusive, and ethical media landscape for the future.
The core of journalism is the freedom of expression, however, that freedom still holds the responsibility of using it in a wise manner. Youth of India, today are influencing an ethical journalism culture that focuses on the credibility of the facts but at the same time it is also the period of extremely fast digital communication where fake news spread like a wildfire, and it is the responsibility of young people to uncover falsehoods and validate the facts by raising the spirit transparency. By fostering honesty and truthfulness, journalism can become not only a source of information but also a source of inspiration. The contribution of youth is absolutely essential in building the media environment where there is freedom of expression is but with a sense of responsibility.
Samriddhi Srivastava
India's adolescents can express a variety of viewpoints thanks to freedom of expression, but it must be in line with social responsibility. Young people may dispute false information, advance the truth, and uphold democratic principles by forming ethical journalism. Their active participation in online forums guarantees neutrality and accountability in reporting. India's youth can cultivate a media culture that informs, unites, and inspires by fusing creativity and integrity, establishing journalism as a cornerstone of moral democracy.
-Saranya Saha
India’s youth are at the center of shaping ethical journalism in the age of digital media. As the largest group of content creators and consumers, they hold power to fight fake news, hate speech, and sensationalism by verifying facts and sharing responsibly. Through student-led media, fact-checking groups, and social campaigns, young people can demand accountability from institutions and promote inclusivity. By balancing freedom of expression with responsibility, they ensure journalism upholds truth, fairness, and democracy. The active participation of youth makes ethical journalism not just a profession but a social movement.
The Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression is inalienable and a fundamental human right. It allows us to express our opinions, feelings and thoughts freely as well as disseminate information whether it be on social media or among friends or family or in public.
Freedom of press is fundamental in a democracy such as India. The media holds incredible power in influencing the opinions of masses. In these times most of the mainstream media is biased and is disseminating misinformation.
In an era where misinformation and the use of AI is frequent and spreads rapidly, the youth should seek to promote media literacy.
This right is extremely important in a time where there have been issues of censorship. For example: Punjab 95, a film based on Jaswant Singh Khalra, a human rights activist who investigated 25,000 illegal killings and cremations involving the Punjab police is stuck in a limbo with CBFC with 127 cuts. Honey Trehan, the director was asked to even remove scenes with the Indian flag, the name Khalra and Punjab police from the movie without any explanation.
Other movies covering social and political issues such as India's Daughter which was based on the Nirbhaya case and Firaaq, on the Gujrat Riots have been banned.
Another issue involving this right is criticism of the government. When an individual criticises and questions the government and its policies, they are labeled as anti national. Labelling a person anti national in this context is wrong as it is necessary to question or criticise the government openly so our nation remains democratic.
The youth of India has a vital role in advocating for ethical journalism, media literacy and freedom of press and in such a critical time.
India’s youth hold a powerful role in shaping ethical journalism. As the largest consumers and creators of digital content, they can demand truth, transparency, and accountability from media platforms. By valuing facts over sensationalism and promoting responsible sharing, young people can curb misinformation. Their fresh perspective, combined with technological skills and social awareness, can help build a media culture rooted in integrity and fairness. If the youth uphold honesty and courage in storytelling, they can ensure journalism remains a pillar of democracy and a voice for justice.
In the 21st century, the power to write, spread, publish and influence resides in every smartphone and thus, every household in the country. In an era where the world drowns in a sea of news, truthful and dishonest; ethical and unethical, it is now more a necessity than a simple duty, to report truthfully, ethically, and fairly to preserve the spirit of journalism in an ever-evolving world.
It is now the responsibility of India’s youth to realise the need of the hour, and paint a better, more scrupulous tomorrow.
- Lavanya Shah
In the 21st century, the power to write, spread, publish and influence resides in every smartphone and thus, every household in the country. In an era where the world drowns in a sea of news, truthful and dishonest; ethical and unethical, it is now more a necessity than a simple duty, to report truthfully, ethically, and fairly to preserve the spirit of journalism in an ever-evolving world.
This responsibility is now in the hands of India’s youth to realise the need of the hour, and paint a better, more scrupulous tomorrow.
- Lavanya Shah
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