FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION OF JOURNALISTS IN INDIA
The Indian Constitution has guaranteed the fundamental right of freedom of expression. There was an attack at the residence of the Editor of Loksatta in Mumbai. An editorial of Times of India of Jun 07, 08 discusses about it. There was an assault on the life and property of this Editor and his wife, by persons belonging to a Sangathana, having links with NCP. The Editor had criticized the decision of the Government of Maharashtra, for arranging a statue of Shivaji in the Arabian Sea. However, when the things are examined a little deeply, it appears that he did not say anything against Shivaji. He had only questioned whether this statue was essential, when there were many other important problems of the people. No doubt, this was an important point. Anyone could have raised this point. But it caused trouble. When Shiv Sena thinks its pride in Shivaji has been offended, it causes trouble. Other political parties have not countered it, but adopted it themselves. Even taking no action, amounts to tacit support. In Gujarat also, this right of freedom of Press appears to be having problems, though for different reasons. The Police Chief of Ahmedabad is angry due to several investigative reports against him. In any democracy, freedom of expression of the press and the citizens is vital.