Freedom of the press is the foundation of a democratic society. The media plays a vital role in informing the public, promoting transparency, safeguarding constitutional values, and ensuring accountability of public authorities. Along with this freedom comes the responsibility to uphold the rule of law and maintain the highest standards of professional ethics. Therefore, a thorough understanding of Press Laws and Ethics is essential for every student and media professional.
This book has been prepared in accordance with the NEP 2020 and the revised syllabus of the University of Mumbai for T.Y.B.A. (Multimedia and Mass Communication), Semester V. It comprehensively covers the constitutional and statutory framework governing the media, including Article 19(1)(a) and Article 19(2), Defamation, Contempt of Court, Right to Information Act, Information Technology Act, Copyright, Right to Privacy, Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023, and the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
Apart from legal provisions, the book also emphasises the ethical dimensions of journalism, including truth, accuracy, fairness, objectivity, accountability, privacy, digital responsibility, and combating misinformation and fake news. Landmark judicial decisions, practical illustrations, and recent legal developments have been incorporated to enable students to understand both the theoretical and practical aspects of media law.
The contents have been presented in a simple, systematic, and student-friendly manner to assist learners in university examinations as well as in developing professional competence in journalism and mass communication.
Contents –
Module 1: Laws-related to Media in India
1. Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution – Freedom of Speech and Expression
2. Sedition (IPC Section 124A) and Obscenity (IPC Sections 292 & 293) with Relevant Provisions under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
3. Right to Information Act, 2005
4. Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023 – Detailed Notes
Module 2: Media Ethics
5. Media Ethics and Self-Regulation in Journalism
6. Core Principles of Journalism in India: Truth and Accuracy
7. Role of Journalists in Combating Digital Misinformation, and Fake News
8. Digital Rights and Responsibilities, Social Media Guidelines and Liability for Content
