What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
The recent discussions at the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communication and Information Technology have brought to the forefront a critical issue: the need for self-regulation in the media to avoid government interference. Industry bodies like the Editors Guild of India (EGI) and the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) have emphasized that self-regulation is crucial to protect press freedom and maintain the integrity of news reporting.
The media plays a pivotal role in a democracy, acting as a watchdog, informing the public, and holding those in power accountable. However, this role can be compromised if the media is subjected to excessive government control. The weaponization of laws to curb press freedom, as highlighted by the EGI, poses a significant threat to the independence of the media. The Information Technology Act and other laws have been criticized for their vague definitions and potential for abuse, which can lead to the suppression of dissenting voices and critical journalism.
Self-regulation, on the other hand, allows the media to maintain its independence while ensuring ethical standards are upheld. It involves media professionals and organizations setting and adhering to their codes of conduct, which can enhance credibility and public trust. The NBDA’s efforts to regulate its members through the News Broadcasting & Digital Standards Authority (NBDSA) are commendable. However, the effectiveness of self-regulation depends on the commitment of media organizations to abide by these standards and the willingness of the regulatory bodies to enforce them.
One of the key challenges in self-regulation is ensuring compliance. As noted by the NBDA chairperson, some media houses join the association but leave when faced with penalties, undermining the self-regulatory framework. To address this, there have been suggestions to make registration with a self-regulatory body a mandatory condition for obtaining a broadcasting license. This could ensure that all media organizations are held to the same standards and are accountable for their actions.
Another issue is the adequacy of penalties for violations. The current fines imposed by the NBDSA are relatively small and may not serve as effective deterrents. Increasing the penalties, as suggested during the committee discussions, could help ensure that media organizations take their responsibilities seriously and adhere to ethical standards.
The role of the government in supporting self-regulation is also crucial. While the government should refrain from direct interference in media operations, it can play a supportive role by providing a conducive environment for self-regulation to thrive. This includes respecting the autonomy of self-regulatory bodies and refraining from using laws to suppress press freedom.
