Journalists decry increasing censorship online
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Constitution, amendments & basic structure· Mains·
Why in news
Freelance journalists and the Editors Guild of India protested proposed amendments to the IT Rules, 2021, alleging they grant the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting excessive control over news reporting.
Background
The protest occurred at the Press Club of India regarding the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. Protesters cited recent takedown requests affecting news platforms Molitics and 4PM News as evidence of a lack of transparency.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyEditors Guild of India: A representative body for news editors.
- Act / BillInformation Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021: Governs digital media ethics and intermediary responsibilities.
- FactMolitics and 4PM News: Specific news platforms cited in the protest regarding takedown requests.
For Mains
Q. Examine the tension between the state's power to regulate digital content and the fundamental right to freedom of the press in a democratic framework.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Transparency deficit: Lack of public accountability in government-led takedown requests of news platforms
- Regulatory overreach: Potential for Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to exert direct control over individual freelance journalists
Keywords: Freedom of Press · Digital Censorship · Regulatory Oversight · Transparency · Intermediary Liability
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