Truth, Traffic, And Ethics: Reimagining Free Speech And Media Responsibility In The Digital Age
- IJLLR Journal
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Ishita Dhir, BBA LLB, Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Management Studies, GGSIPU.
Pranav Goel, BBA LLB, Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Management Studies, GGSIPU.
ABSTRACT
“Is freedom of speech and expression the most essential and pervasive, yet frequently neglected, pillar of democracy?” A healthy democracy allows one to express himself in numerous ways in all the available forms, i.e., word of mouth, writing, printing, picturing, etc., or any other manner. Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression. The research paper seeks to set forth the dynamics of ethical journalism that respects both freedom of speech and media ethics. Undoubtedly, these platforms serve as strong pillars of democracy, yet they also become channels for controversy, hate speech, defamation, cyberbullying, misinformation, privacy concerns, and more. The aforementioned right grants citizens the freedom to express their opinions online on a wide range of topics, including religious disputes, elections, prominent public figures (such as politicians, businesspeople, and actors), sports, international conflicts or agreements, legal matters, and more. Furthermore, the right to freedom of speech, like any other right, is subject to certain reasonable limitations intended to uphold public order, morality, and security. The paper highlights the ethical implications of promulgating false information, news, and rumours that deteriorate public trust. The study investigates major judicial rulings, policy developments, and pivotal events that have defined the limits of free expression in the digital age. Considering India’s status as one of the biggest democratic nations globally, there are numerous challenges to the democratic system. The Information Technology Act, 2000, grants legal recognition to transactions conducted through electronic data interchange and other forms of digital communication, establishing a framework to promote responsible online interactions.
Keywords: Freedom of speech and expression, Constitution Article 19(1)(a), media ethics, Information Technology Act, misinformation, ethical journalism, democracy, public order, digital communication, hate speech.
