FREEDOM OF MEDIA IN INDIA ? (A LEGAL PERSPECTIVE)

Journalism is one of the main pillars of a democratic set up. Commonly referred to as the “Fourth Estate”, Journalism brings awareness in the society about the democratic and social obligations. Journalists are watchdogs of the society. However, the media is not absolutely free to do whatever seems right to it. Law which regulates the conduct of the State, its institutions and citizens also regulates the media. Like any other profession, journalism is also bound by legal framework. Indian Constitution is the fountain head of laws regulating media in the country. One of the most important rights guaranteed under the Constitution to the citizens including media is the freedom of speech and expression. This research was attempted to recognize the freedom of speech and expression for the journalists and understand how the law has dealt with this freedom through different cases and judgments. The paper discusses the freedom of speech and expression as guaranteed in the constitution of India, and how it has been interpreted by Indian courts for the media through different judgments and case laws. It is based on the study and analysis of eleven court cases that have been decided by the courts of India.