Role of Media and Its Importance in Society

Media is known as the 4th pillar of democracy. It is an important pillar of society it has great positive & negative impacts on society. We live in a society that depend on information to progress it the right direction. Media has the power to influence people's attitudes & perspective on many issues, it has power to grow the society and leads a country towards success. It act as mirror of modern life.

1. Constitution knows the importance of freedom of media and it grants the fundamental right to media. It play the important role in promoting historical awareness, social change, social injustice struggle for independence , it has exposed corruption and contributed to the social change helped in gender equality, LGBTQ, environmental protection.
2. Media is regulated by many laws like Press Council Act 1978, The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995

Contempt of Court Act 1971 restricts media reporting of ongoing court it is because to maintain the dignity of the court.

The importance of media when the country getting independence

During India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule, which end in 1947 with independence and the partition of India and Pakistan, the role of media was important and transformative.
Advocacy and Mobilization: Indian media, especially newspapers and magazines like "The Hindu," "The Statesman," and "Young India" (edited by Mahatma Gandhi), played a crucial role in advocating for independence
Education and Awareness: Media played a significant role in educating the masses about the injustices of colonial rule, promoting ideas of self-governance, democracy, and civil disobedience. Newspapers published articles, speeches, and editorials by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and others, which informed and inspired people to participate actively in the freedom struggle.
International Influence: Indian media also had an international impact, particularly through publications like "The Hindustan Times" and "Amrita Bazar Patrika" which highlighted India's struggle for independence on the global stage.
Role of Radio: Towards the later stages of the independence movement, radio broadcasts, particularly by All India Radio (AIR), became increasingly influential. Leaders like Mahatm Gandhi used radio addresses to communicate directly with the masses, spreading messages of non-violence and civil disobedience.

Types of Media

1. Print Media
2. Broadcast Media
3. Digital Media

Print Media

Newspapers: Daily or weekly publications that report news on various topics.

Magazines: Periodicals with articles, interviews, photos, and advertisements on specific interests or subjects.

Books: Long-form print publications covering a wide range of topics. Broadcast Media:

Broadcast Media:

Television: Visual and audio content broadcasted over airwaves or through cable/ satellite.

Radio: Audio content transmitted through radio waves, covering music, news, talk shows, and more.

Digital Media:

Websites: Online platforms providing information, services, and entertainment.

Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn for social networking and sharing content.

Streaming Services: Platforms like Netflix and Spotify that provide on-demand video and audio content.

Podcasts: Digital audio files available for download or streaming, typically in a series.

How Media is usefull for Us?

Information Dissemination: Media serves as a primary source of information, providing news about local, national, and international events. This helps individuals stay informed about what's happening around them, which is essential for making informed decisions and participating in democratic processes.

Education: Media plays a important role in educating the public through educational programs on television, online courses, and informational articles. which helps to spread knowledge on a wide range of topics, from health and science to history and culture.

Public Opinion Formation: Media shapes public opinion by presenting various viewpoints on issues. Editorials, opinion pieces and debates help people form their own opinions based on the information and perspectives provided.

Crisis Management: During emergencies and crises, media provides critical information that can save lives.

Entertainment: Entertainment is a significant function of media. Films, music, television shows, and online content provide relaxation and enjoyment, contributing to the overall well-being of society.

Social Connectivity: Social media platforms connect people across the globe, allowing for the exchange of ideas, collaboration, and support.

Legal Framework

Part III Fundamental Right Article19 (1) (a) of the Indian Constitution guarantees the freedom of speech and expression constitution give freedom of speech and expression to all citizen includes media.

Case Law - Romesh Thapar v/s State of madras (1950) In this case Romesh Thapar criticized the Nehru government's policies. The government of madras banned that magazine under the madras maintenance of public order act (1949).
Thapar petitioned the supreme court and said it is violated my fundamental right freedom of speech and expression under article 19(1)(a). Supreme court said yes, it is unconstitutional as it did not affect security of state. The liberty of press is essential part of freedom of speech and expression.

Freedom to Report Court Proceeding

In Saroj Iyer v/s Maharastra Medical Council of Indian medicine. Supreme court held that the right to print faithful reports of the legal proceedings witnessed

Freedom to Act as an Advertising Platform

In Tata Press v/s Mahanagar Telephone Nigam, Supreme Court incorporated the right to advertisement as a part of the freedom of expression.

The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867: This law regulates the printing presses and newspapers and provides for the preservation of copies of books and newspapers.

The Press Council Act of 1978: This act plays a crucial role in balancing press freedom with ethical journalism standards. It helps ensure that the media can operate freely and responsibly, which is essential for a healthy democracy. By providing a framework for accountability and advisory support, the Act supports the media in its role as the fourth estate, upholding the values of transparency, accountability, and integrity in journalism.

The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995: This Act regulates the operation of cable television networks to prevent the transmission of objectionable content.

The Information Technology Act, 2000: While primarily focused on cyber laws, this Act also impacts digital journalism and the dissemination of news through electronic means.

The Right to Information Act, 2005: This law empowers citizens to request information from public authorities, enhancing transparency and enabling investigative journalism.

References

1. Press Council Act, 1978:

Government of India. (1978). The Press Council Act, 1978. Retrieved from Legislative Department, Ministry of Law and Justice.

Press Council of India. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from Press Council of India

2. Laws Related to Media and Journalism:

The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867: Government of India. (1867). The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867. Retrieved from Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995: Government of India. (1995). The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. Retrieved from Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

3. The Right to Information Act, 2005:

Government of India. (2005). The Right to Information Act, 2005. Retrieved from RTI.gov.in.

Doyle, G. (2013). Understanding Media Economics. Sage Publications.

Hesmondhalgh, D. (2019). The Cultural Industries. Sage Publications.

Jenkins, H. (2006). Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide. NYU Press.

Written By: Tanya Gupta (Intern at LEE OPC Pvt. Ltd.)