Editors Guild of India urges legislative review to safeguard press freedom

The Guild has also highlighted that several new laws have been implemented with insufficient stakeholder consultation and parliamentary scrutiny

by e4m Staff
Published: Jul 20, 2024 7:16 PM | 1 min read

In its letter to the leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi, the Editors Guild of India has voiced significant concerns over legislative measures impacting media freedom.

EGI has highlighted that several new laws and amendments—such as the IT Rule 2021 and its 2023 amendment under the IT Act 2000—have been implemented with insufficient stakeholder consultation and parliamentary scrutiny.

The Guild has stated that these regulations are affecting the online space, broadcast, print, and telecom sectors and contain provisions that are overly broad and vague, potentially misused to stifle legitimate journalism. The Guild emphasized that these measures grant extensive powers to government authorities, risking a chilling effect on press freedom due to increased control and punitive measures.

The Editors Guild has also expressed readiness to discuss these issues in greater detail with a delegation of their members, seeking Rahul Gandhi’s support in this vital matter.