I Ahmed Wani
“A free press can, of course, be good or bad, but, most certainly without freedom, the press will never be anything but bad.” Albert Camus (via BBC, 2018)
On May 3, 2025, World Press Freedom Day, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, stands as a global tribute to the vital role of a free press in fostering transparency, accountability, and democracy. In India, the world’s largest democracy, the press navigates a complex landscape marked by courage, resilience, and significant challenges.
Global Perspectives on Press Freedom
The BBC has consistently highlighted the pressures faced by journalists worldwide, including in India. In a 2023 report, it noted the risks journalists encounter in conflict zones like Jammu and Kashmir, where reporting can invite severe consequences. “Journalists in Kashmir are caught between militancy and state scrutiny,” the BBC observed, underscoring the delicate tightrope walked by the press. Al Jazeera, similarly, has shed light on the challenges of covering sensitive regions, stating in a 2020 article, “The role of a journalist is to report facts, even when those facts are inconvenient.” These global voices remind us that press freedom is not just a professional right but a cornerstone of democratic discourse.
Indian Philosophers on Truth and Liberty
India’s philosophical heritage offers profound guidance on the importance of truth and free expression. Rabindranath Tagore envisioned a society “where the mind is without fear and the head is held high.” His words inspire journalists to pursue truth fearlessly, even in turbulent times. Mahatma Gandhi, a champion of non-violence and truth, emphasized the press’s responsibility: “The sole aim of journalism should be service.” Likewise, Swami Vivekananda’s call for liberty “Freedom is the first condition of growth”—resonates as India grapples with its 151st rank on the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, a reminder of the work needed to strengthen media independence.
The Threat of Terrorism to Journalists
In Jammu and Kashmir, journalists face not only professional challenges but also grave threats from terrorists who seek to silence the press. The region has witnessed tragic losses, such as the 2018 assassination of Shujaat Bukhari, editor of Rising Kashmir, by suspected militants. Bukhari’s killing sent shockwaves through the journalistic community, highlighting the dangers of reporting in a conflict zone. Other journalists have faced direct threats from terrorist groups, accused of being “mukhbers” (informants) for the armed forces. I still remember when a separatist frequented a tea stall near Press Colony in Srinagar, openly labeling journalists as army informants. Senior journalists, aware of these accusations, carried the weight of such threats silently. Even on World Press Freedom Day, fear of reprisal prevents many from speaking out about this reality, a testament to the pervasive climate of intimidation.
Terrorists, too, face scrutiny and consequences, often finding themselves at the receiving end of counter-terrorism operations. Yet, this cycle of violence only deepens the challenges for journalists, who must navigate accusations from all sides while striving to report the truth. The courage of those who continue to work under such threats deserves recognition and support.
Navigating Media Dynamics
The media landscape in India is further complicated by economic dependencies, particularly the allocation of government advertisements. In Jammu and Kashmir, newspapers often rely on these advertisements for financial sustainability. Unfortunately, some outlets, wary of jeopardling controversy, remain silent on critical issues, including the threats faced by journalists. This silence, while understandable in a region marked by conflict, underscores the need for a broader dialogue on ensuring editorial independence. A free press thrives not on financial patronage but on the ability to report without fear or favor.
The term “Godi media,” popularized by journalist Ravish Kumar, has sparked debate about media outlets perceived as overly aligned with certain narratives. While some channels prioritize sensationalism, others strive to maintain balance, reflecting the diversity of India’s media ecosystem. The 2024 general election, for instance, saw varied predictions, with some outlets overestimating the ruling party’s mandate, only for voters to deliver a more nuanced verdict. This highlights the importance of grounding journalism in facts rather than speculation, a challenge for all media houses, not just those labeled as partisan.
A Call for Unity and Resilience
“We shall overcome, we shall overcome, we shall overcome someday.” These words, rooted in the struggle for justice, resonate with journalists who persevere despite threats, from the pens of local reporters to the voices silenced by violence. From the reels of social media to the rounds of conflict, the pursuit of press freedom remains a collective endeavor. In Jammu and Kashmir, where internet shutdowns and reporting restrictions have tested resilience, journalists like those at The Wire and Kashmir Walla continue to document ground realities, often at great personal risk.
To strengthen press freedom, India must foster an environment where journalists can work without fear of violence or retribution. Supporting local journalism, as suggested by platforms like Scroll.in, can amplify marginalized voices and counter centralized narratives. Transparent policies on advertisement allocation, coupled with protections for whistleblowers, can further bolster media independence. As Tagore’s vision of a fearless mind reminds us, a free press is not just a democratic asset but a moral imperative.
On World Press Freedom Day 2025, let us honor the courage of journalists who brave threats from terrorists, navigate economic pressures, and uphold the truth. From the tea stalls of Press Colony to the newsrooms of the nation, their resilience lights the path forward. Together, with unity and determination, “we shall overcome”.
