Media Freedom Under Pressure, Fearless Journalism Essential: KTR

BRS Working President K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) on Saturday expressed concern over what he described as the declining state of media freedom in the country, calling for fearless journalism to safeguard democracy and ensure public accountability.

Speaking at the 11th anniversary celebrations of Nava Telangana held at Sundarayya Vignana Kendram in Hyderabad, KTR addressed a seminar on "Constitution, Democracy and Freedom of the Press." He began by congratulating the newspaper on completing eleven years and praised its contribution to public discourse.

KTR said that media freedom has been steadily shrinking, with many news organisations operating under pressure to protect their survival rather than report independently. He argued that journalists are increasingly finding it difficult to publish facts without fear and claimed that individuals who speak the truth are being subjected to legal action and imprisonment. In a democracy, he said, freedom of expression should not be restricted.

Highlighting the role of digital platforms, KTR said social media has become a powerful tool for strengthening accountability in governments. According to him, many issues would not receive official attention without the scrutiny enabled by online platforms. He also observed that recent youth-led protests in New Delhi reflected a growing culture of questioning among the younger generation, adding that political parties and institutions must evolve with changing public expectations or risk becoming irrelevant.

On the issue of online misinformation, KTR said governments should first ensure that those in positions of power refrain from engaging in hate speech before advocating stricter laws on the subject. He stressed that fake news circulating on social media must be rigorously fact-checked and said the media has a responsibility to present positive developments honestly while also exposing wrongdoing without bias.

Referring to what he described as misleading narratives in the past, KTR cited claims regarding Pragathi Bhavan, the cost of a major infrastructure project and allegations of phone tapping involving film personalities, asserting that subsequent investigations did not establish evidence to support those accusations.

He also criticised sections of the mainstream media for allegedly giving inadequate coverage to issues such as the Lagacharla incident, the HCU land controversy, and the POCSO case registered against the son of a Union Minister. Concluding his address, KTR said that a free press and fearless journalism remain indispensable for protecting democratic values and constitutional principles.