The press has an important role to play in the society. It can shapepublic opinion and as such it has to be cautious is every way. In a democracy the press has to play a constructive role.

Newspapers are the main source of information to people. They tell them what is going on around in the world. In this process they make their own remarks on men and matters. In doing so they have to be unbiased and impartial. The press should exercise great self restraint in reporting sensitive matters. It should write nothing that disturb peace. Newspapers should never support a wrong cause.

Our Constitution guarantees freedom of press. A free press is the reflection of a free society. The main responsibility of the newspapers is to bring out facts and put them before the people. For this objectivity in reporting is necessary. The press should uphold certain positive values that create a healthy society. It should, through its comments, enable the public to form the right way of thinking. The press should not be afraid of opposing the wrong.

In a democratic set up the press can act as a bridge between the government and the people. It can gather public opinion and bring it to the notice of the authorities. Similarly it can also let people know what the government thinks or does. Often in a democracy the newspapers champion the cause of the public. They are not afraid of criticizing the rules. This provides the governments an opportunity to correct their lapses.

In India the press is using its freedom for constructive purposes. By and large the newspapers are impartial. They act in public interest. Many a hidden secret has been unearthed by the newspapers. Cases like the bofors-issue came to light only because of newspapers. Of late investigative journalism has gained momentum. Many shady activities of men in power are being brought to light.

Unfortunately this freedom is sometimes misused. Some newspapers have vested interests. They spread rumours and present distorted version of things. This may rouse passions in the society. There are newspapers that spread communal hatred. In our country newspapers are owned by big businessmen. They project their own views in the newspapers which may have harmful effects. This tendency has to be checked. No newspaper should be allowed to write anything that effects the peace of society. Only then freedom of press has any meaning.