Differentiate between 'Freedom of Journalism' and 'Responsible Journalism'
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New Delhi, Sept 21 : In the ongoing case against Sudarshan TV's show 'Bindas Bol', the Central government has now asked the SC to shift its emphasis from mainstream media to digital platforms considering their impact and availability. The Centre has stressed on the need to regulate legal framework for digital media as well and stated that there is a line between Freedom of Journalism and Responsible Journalism, which should not be crossed.
A petition had been filed against Sudarshan TV when the show claimed to reveal the conspiracy that lies behind the admission of Muslims in civil services. After the petition was filed, the SC had called the show to be deceptive of the truth. The petitioner has requested the SC to initiate contempt against the show's anchor and channel's Editor - in - chief. The apex court has put a ban on the broadcast of the show and had proposed to frame proper guidelines against communal content that runs in mainstream media.
In a continuation of this series, the Centre has now asked the SC to frame guidelines for digital media instead of mainstream media as they are easily accessible, have a far reach and are certainly more impactful. According to the government, a framework of guidelines for mainstream media regarding such issues already exists whereas the problems on digital platforms, in spite of being potentially effective, go unattended. Considering the current scenario of media, it is necessary to shift our focus from mainstream media to digital media, which too is subject to regulate such defamatory content and can prove to be much more dangerous than the mainstream media if not paid attention to.
Even though these platforms are classified as intermediaries according to the Information Technology Act, 2000, presently India has no legal framework for online streaming platforms. With the right to enjoy freedom of journalism, there also comes a responsibility to maintain the rationality and authenticity of the content provided and this is not only expected from mainstream media but also the digital platforms. Therefore, the Centre has asked the SC to shift the emphasis from mainstream media to digital platforms, for their impactful content.