New Delhi: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday alleged that press freedom in India has been “gravely compromised” under the present regime, marking a sharp political statement on World Press Freedom Day.
In a message shared on social media, Kharge said that a free and independent press is the cornerstone of democracy, but claimed that increasing pressure, intimidation, and curbs on journalists have weakened this pillar in recent years. He stressed that the role of the media is to question those in power without fear, adding that any attempt to silence voices undermines democratic values.
“Press freedom is not just about journalists, it is about citizens’ right to know the truth,” Kharge said, asserting that the current environment has made it increasingly difficult for media professionals to operate independently. He also highlighted concerns raised by several global watchdogs regarding India’s ranking in press freedom indices.
The Congress chief urged institutions to safeguard constitutional rights and ensure that journalists can work without fear of reprisal. He called for collective efforts to restore what he described as the “spirit of free and fair journalism” in the country.
The remarks come amid an ongoing political debate over media independence and freedom of expression in India. Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the central government, led by Narendra Modi, of attempting to influence or control sections of the media, an allegation the government has consistently denied.
On the other hand, government representatives have maintained that India has a vibrant media ecosystem and that criticism of policies continues to be widely reported across platforms. They argue that the country remains committed to democratic principles, including freedom of speech and expression.
United Nations marks World Press Freedom Day every year on May 3 to highlight the importance of a free press and to remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression.
Kharge’s statement has once again brought the spotlight on the condition of press freedom in India, with political leaders, journalists, and civil society groups engaging in renewed discussions on the challenges faced by the media landscape today.
