Media plays a very important roles in creating awareness among masses about

various social, economic and political activities happening around the world. It is
a prime source of information for the public and is largely responsible for
creating public opinion about the ongoing issues. N Ram, former editor in chief of
The Hindu, says The function of media can be classified under two heads; the
credible-informational and the critical investigative-adversarial. Both the
functions are interrelated and essential for better functioning of Media. However,
because of recent changes like cutbacks in news gathering, marginalization of
reporters, and the shift of focus to studio driven presentations, media has lost its
true essence.
There have been many instances in the past where wrong news was circulated
by media in first place which was later compensated by a simple apology with no
legal implication. These incidents happen because of the absence of a legal
regulatory framework for all types of mass media. Though Press council of India
(PCI) acts as a watchdog of the press, absence of a proper legal framework limits
their functionality and power. It is a quasi-judicial body and can take decisions
only by drawing conclusions from the existing laws. Regulatory framework,
specifically for media, can help to prevent circulation of false news or rumours.
Strong actions in terms of monetary fines should be imposed on media channels
promoting such practices and instigating controversial thoughts in people's
minds. This would ensure professional and social accountability on part of media
houses.
Another problem with the current media in India in the revenue model. As
mentioned in the article Manufacturing news by Sandeep Bhushan,
Owners/promoters have become the prime drivers of television news rather
than editors. Some regulation should be passed to limit the interference of
promoters by changing the revenue model. It should be modified in such a way
that no promoter should be allowed to hold more than a specific percentage of
share in any media house. This would automatically enhance the power of editor
in chiefs and would ensure that the media houses deliver unbiased news. More
share of revenue should be collected from the viewers/readers/listeners of news.
Limiting the share of promoters and advertisements would automatically limit
their interference. Though it would lead to an increase in the prices for the
consumers, but that is the price we would have to pay to ensure that we receive
unbiased news.
The third reform should be giving more freedom to the media houses. The
framework of laws applicable for media have remained same since the British
rules and are quiet illiberal. Laws like criminal and civil defamation, contempt of
court, incitement to offences curb the right to freedom of expression to a large
extent. Strict laws should be removed and media should be given more freedom.
Freedom along with strict punishments in case they break the laws would pave
way for a more responsible and evolved media. India needs a legal framework
which is liberal in terms of freedom given to media houses, but at the same time
should be strict in case they resort to malpractices.
These reforms, if implemented, can revolutionize Indian media and make it more
responsible and accountable.