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India to global critics: Mind your own business, Our press is free!

The Indian government has defiantly dismissed concerns over its declining Global Press Freedom Index ranking, asserting the strength and independence of its media.

In a fiery response to a Lok Sabha query by SHRI K SUDHAKARAN, THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS (DR. L. MURUGAN) declared, "India has a vibrant press and media ecosystem, which does not need validation from foreign organizations".  

 DR. L. Murugan  backed this assertion by highlighting the sheer scale of the Indian media, stating the nation boasts "about 1,45,000 printed publications, more than 900 private satellite TV channels and numerous publishers on digital media including OTT platforms, e-replica of newspapers, digital newspapers, news websites and news channels on social media platforms etc.".  
The government's statement further outlined the legal safeguards in place for journalists. It emphasized that freedom of speech and expression is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Constitution. The Press Council of India (PCI), an autonomous statutory body, plays a key role in protecting press freedom.  
The statement quoted the PCI's mandate: "Under Section 13 of the Press Council Act 1978, the PCI is also mandated to take suo-motu cognizance on the pressing issues concerning freedom of Press and safeguarding of its high standards".  
Additionally, the government pointed to the self-regulatory mechanisms governing electronic media under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and stressed the importance of India's robust judicial system in upholding constitutional provisions.  
This bold stance from the Indian government signals its unwavering confidence in its domestic media environment and its rejection of external assessments of press freedom.
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