If every citizen becomes a journalist, it will create problems for all, says SC
The Supreme Court of India is debating the legal definition of a journalist in the digital age, specifically regarding the protections afforded to independent creators and influencers. The court expressed concern that granting broad journalistic protections to every citizen could create significant societal and legal challenges.
Why it matters
This case highlights the tension between traditional media accreditation and the rise of citizen journalism, which could redefine freedom of expression laws in India.
NEW DELHI: Supreme Court Thursday said it will be problematic if every citizen becomes a journalist as PILs sought protection of the right to freedom of expression of freelancers, independent journalists and reel-makers who descend in large numbers at protest venues already teeming with hordes of accredited reporters from registered media houses.Senior advocate Indira Jaising complained to a bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi that Delhi Police did not recognise independent and freelance journalists covering the protests and insisted on Press Information Bureau (PIB) accreditation. She said there must be a national protocol for police not to obstruct the professional work of any journalist who has an identity card from the employer.CJI Kant, however, struck a note of caution. “We must also keep one thing in mind. If everyone starts becoming a journalist, it will create problems for every other person,” he said.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in