The Press Council of India was established in 1966 by the Parliament based on the recommendations of the First Press Commission. It has played a crucial role in preserving the freedom of the press and enhancing the standards of journalism in the country. It was established to create a regulatory body that could ensure responsible journalism while protecting the rights and liberties of the press. It has prepared a code of ethics for journalists.
The Press Council functions under the Press Council Act of 1978, which defines its powers, functions, and structure. As a statutory and quasi-judicial body, it acts as a watchdog for the press, overseeing and adjudicating complaints against and by the press. This dual role is critical in maintaining a balance between protecting freedom of the press and addressing ethical violations within the industry.
At the helm of the Press Council is a Chairman, traditionally a retired judge of the Supreme Court of India. This ensures a judicious and impartial leadership that understands the nuances of legal and ethical considerations in journalism. The Council comprises 28 other members, with 20 representing the press, nominated by press organisations and news agencies recognised and notified by the Council. The remaining members include five nominees from the two houses of Parliament and three representatives from cultural, literary, and legal fields, nominated by the Sahitya Akademi, University Grants Commission, and the Bar Council of India, respectively.
Members of the Press Council serve a three-year term. The Council’s funding model is distinctive, as it collects revenue through fees imposed on registered newspapers based on circulation. However, newspapers with a circulation of less than 5000 copies are exempt from this fee. In instances of a deficit, the Central Government provides grants through the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The Press Council of India is a vital institution that upholds the principles of a free press while holding the media to high ethical standards. Its composition, functions, and funding mechanisms collectively contribute to a system that protects the rights of the press and ensures responsible journalism for the benefit of society as a whole.
WORKS CITED
https://www.presscouncil.nic.in
https://www.kuwj.org/page/press-council-of-india
https://indiankanoon.org/doc/57989479
Dr Aswathy Aravindakshan is a teacher, bilingual writer and artist with over two decades of experience in teaching English language and literature. She currently serves as Assistant Professor of English at NSS College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Her blog, ashlit.in brings together academic resources, creative writing in Malayalam and English, and visual art. The platform features lecture notes, study materials, poems, reflections, short prose, and a curated collection of her paintings. Through this space, she seeks to foster learning, creativity, and meaningful engagement with literature and the arts.
Discover more from ashlit.in
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Comments on “The Press Council of India has Played a Vital Role Since 1966”