The Editors Guild of India has expressed strong concern over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's consistent avoidance of open press conferences during his more than a decade in power. In a statement, the Guild termed this lack of engagement as 'regrettable' and highlighted that it reflects a broader intolerance to being questioned that is increasingly visible across all levels of government, both at the Central and State levels.
Impact on Economy and Democracy
The Guild argued that media restrictions are not just a threat to democratic values but also harm the country's economy. It noted that a free and vibrant press is essential for a healthy democracy and economic growth. The organization pointed to India's 'abysmal position' in various global press freedom rankings as a matter of grave concern. While acknowledging that one may differ about the methodology or implicit bias in such rankings, the Guild emphasized that the consistent low rankings should prompt introspection.
Call for Open Dialogue
The statement called on the Prime Minister to address the nation through open press conferences, allowing journalists to ask questions directly. The Guild said that such interactions are crucial for transparency and public accountability. It also urged the government to foster an environment where media can operate without fear or favor, warning that continued restrictions could further damage India's international reputation and economic prospects.
The Editors Guild's remarks come amid ongoing debates about press freedom in India, with several international reports highlighting a decline in recent years. The organization reiterated that a free press is a cornerstone of democracy and that any curbs on it ultimately hurt the nation's progress.
