Letters to The EDITOR: Freedom of the press

Freedom of the press

The media is the fourth pillar of this democracy. A free press is essential for an effective democracy. Without freedom of the press, all human rights are at risk. Journalists and news organizations face threats such as violence, imprisonment, lack of funding, coordinated online attacks, and harassment. According to the economist, about 85 per cent of people live in a country where press freedom has declined over the last five years. Major countries like China, India, Russia, Brazil, and Turkey saw significant declines. India has been ranked 142nd out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index, published in 2020.

Today, the media is mostly pretending to be news by showing the press conferences, speeches, or cheap things of ministers and bureaucrats. At present, issues such as unemployment, flood problems, etc. are gradually decreasing on the media floor, and in its place, things like temple-mosque, Hindu-Muslim, Pakistan context, etc. are gradually occupying place. Therefore, the media should look at its faults, take all these things seriously, and fulfil its responsibility towards democracy with dedication. The success of democracy actually depends on the performance of the responsibilities and duties of the media. Freedom of the press is required in a democracy, and the media needs to fulfil its responsibility.

Bornali Borah,

Gauhati University, Department of communications and journalism

What a win!

The Indian cricket team has stormed into the World Cup finals after an electrifying semi-final match against New Zealand. What a performance by our star batsmen, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, who smashed centuries, and our star bowler, Shami! He bowled like an absolute champion, tormenting the opposition with his impressive skills and precision. Now, as we gear up for the finals, it's time for the entire nation to unite and rally behind our team. Let's continue supporting them with all our hearts and souls as they chase the dream of bringing the World Cup trophy back home.

MJ Azizi,

Guwahati