Topic: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
Q3. “Freedom of the press is not merely a democratic right but a functional necessity for accountable governance”. Comment. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
Growing concerns regarding media independence, digital misinformation and declining institutional accountability have renewed debates on the role of press freedom in democratic governance.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining why freedom of the press is essential for accountable governance, discussing the major challenges affecting press freedom and suggesting suitable reforms to strengthen independent journalism.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly mention that press freedom is both a democratic right and an institutional mechanism necessary for transparency, accountability and informed citizenship.
Body
- Role in accountable governance: Mention transparency, watchdog role, citizen awareness, policy scrutiny or checking arbitrary exercise of power.
- Challenges to press freedom: Discuss legal intimidation, corporate pressure, misinformation, decline of local journalism or algorithmic suppression.
- Way forward: Suggest legal safeguards, institutional independence, media ethics, digital transparency or strengthening public-interest journalism.
Conclusion
Conclude by emphasising that democratic governance and constitutional accountability cannot be sustained without a free, credible and independent press.
