Press is the fourth pillar on which the democratic construct of a state is shaped and established. Press mostly bears the burden of generating accountability of the three organs of the government and shaping public opinion which is crucial to the sustenance and survival of democratic constituent of the state.
Press, the mention of which makes one think of gathering, reporting, publishing and broadcasting of news through newspapers, periodicals be it in print, radio or television. Press in India, begun with the printing of the first Indian Newspaper The Bengal Gazette in 1780, by James Augutus Hicky, but was soon censored and seized by the then British Administration in 1782.
The first weekly newspaper was published in Germany around 1604 by Johann Carolus. The continuation of the growing publication of newspapers, journals and periodicals henceforth over the past centuries is a proof in itself of its relevance, importance and necessity in any part of the world. The changes in technology over time has had an impact on the level of circulation and accessibility. Press is the only medium which is regularly keeping the public informed on all possible fronts.
The strength and integrity of this fourth pillar is a unique blend of the principles of truth, accuracy, impartiality, independence, accountability, cultural sensitivity and ethical use of sources. Fair transparency is sought in the process of delivering information to the public. Public opinion is largely shaped by the manner in which press informs, educates and entertains.
Press and media is the tool through which public is kept informed and updated about the doings of the government. While the legislature busies itself with enactment/amendments of laws, executive with execution of executive/administrative activities and judiciary with its role as the upholder of law and constitutionality of the land; it is the press alone which is connected to the people on a day to day basis and keeps the public updated continuously of what is happening in society and state around them, even beyond boundaries. At every step of democratic built the press is inseparable.
For the masses in general, if it is not for the press and media, there is no other way to know about various types of news on such a short duration and in such simple manner. Gathering, investigating and reporting of information is an arduous task in itself when reporters and presenters have to bear through unforeseen and unfavourable situations to gather a particular piece of news.
The part of regular printing and publishing is another upheaval task which needs meticulous monitoring, due diligence and execution to see the final outcome which has to be regular, accurate and free from undue influences.
Once published and circulated there is no way going back, just like the arrow once released. This fact imposes a lot of responsibility on press, media and journalists. They must be true and committed to themselves so that they can keep the democratic construct unshakable.
The press can create both uniting and divisive forces in a state because they keep the citizens informed and aware of not just political but also societal issues. Through various channels and multiple sources of news and views, press and media can help shape public opinion for or against any issue and this is not to promote themselves but only towards building a better nation.
On a global platform, press and media can go a long way to build a just world by ensuring that human rights abuses are addressed to properly. This even applies at times of international crisis that creates awareness and need for global assistance and interference.
Right to be informed can be exercised only when the press is able to act as a free and independent tool to ensure that citizens are informed decision makers. While this also must be backed with the environment where there is freedom to express one’s thoughts and opinions without the fear of censorship. The aim is to ensure that none of the elements of society and organs of the state act in a manner which is not conducive to the overall development and growth of the nation.
Press in itself is of primary importance at all levels – local, national and international. Without an effective and free press there is always an eminent fear and danger of infringement of democratic rights and freedom. Press thus becomes the fourth pillar that helps propel the other three to make democracy a success.
That is why, restrictions and censorships are imposed so that information that is mis-directed/guided are not spread nor generate undesired results which is against constitutionality and the law of the land. Restrictions are not negative if taken in the spirit of being essential. No right can be enjoyed in all fullness if there does not exist restrictions. To fully utilise the potential to educate/inform the public and keeping public welfare in mind due restrictions must be respected.
Media autonomy is of vital importance to preserve the sanctity of democracy alongside creating a conducive environment for journalism to enable reliable, independent and diverse news and information. Press and media are the bearer of news and information and is the link that keeps the public informed and connected.
Until very recently everything in media were the doings of human efforts and intelligence. But with the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and its gradual involvement in most aspects of working, the press too is not spared. Though AI helps assist in data analysis and research, content creation, improve audience reach and help fact checking and accuracy; yet again, AI in press, media and journalism will go a long way in terms of reloading of information, increase control exerted by platform companies over the information ecosystem, technology dependency, joblessness and ethical consideration.
So much so, that the World Press Freedom Day, 3rd May, 2025, addresses to the growing influence of AI in press, media and journalism under the theme – Reporting in the Brave New World – The impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and Media.
(All views and opinions expressed are author’s own)