GS2 · 10 marks · 150 words

Discuss the role of the 'Fourth Estate' in upholding democratic values and analyse the issues affecting press freedom in India.

Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2022–2024

Transparency and AccountabilityFundamental Rights

Syllabus: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

How toppers approached it

From 3 of the 5 answers · about 160 words · 67% drew a diagram.

Opening

  • A definition2 of 3
  • A quotation1 of 3

Body

  • Points2 of 3
  • Points and prose1 of 3

Close

  • A way forward2 of 3
  • No separate close1 of 3

The toppers’ answers

Aayushi BansalAIR 7 · CSE 2024 · 53 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a definition

'Fourth Estate' is the 'fourth pillar' of democracy i.e media & press. So, its freedom becomes sinequa non for democracy.

Role of Fourth Estate in upholding democratic values

Body · points and prose

Diagram
Positive role 1. Upholds freedom of speech, expression, dissent (Article 19(1)(a)) 2. Voice to marginalised (eg Hathras rape case coverage) 3. Check & balances on executive & legislature (eg covering bureaucratic failures) Negative role 1. Sensationalisation, leads to side-lining democratic agenda 2. Crony capitalism, hijack by corporates 3. Biased, paid, fake news 4. TRP manipulation against fair competition

Issues affecting press freedom

(1) Threat to life of journalists who cover sensitive issues (eg gangsters/organised crime)

(2) Media-corporate nexus, leading to selective coverage.

(3)

Close · no separate close

None written.

More on Transparency and Accountability

RTI, audit, whistleblowing and the institutions that enforce answerability.

All GS2 questions on Transparency and Accountability