Free Press is the Backbone of Democracy: Vijay Inder Singla on World Press Freedom Day
Chandigarh, May 3
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, former cabinet minister Vijay Inder Singla paid tribute to courageous journalists who continue to stand firm against pressure, intimidation, and threats from those in power.
In a statement Singla said that in a healthy democracy, the media acts as a mirror that compels governments to face reality, including their shortcomings. He stressed that the independence of the press and the strength of democracy are deeply connected, adding that any attempt to curb media freedom is a direct attack on democratic values.
Expressing concern over the growing challenges faced by journalists, the senior leader alleged that deliberate efforts are being made in Punjab and across the country to suppress independent voices and weaken truthful reporting. He claimed that critical voices are increasingly being targeted through various means.
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Singla pointed to incidents such as the suspension of government advertisements to certain media houses in Punjab, alleged false FIRs against rural journalists exposing ground realities, and action taken against reporters and social media accounts during the farmers’ protests. According to him, these developments reflect a worrying trend aimed at silencing dissenting voices.
He emphasized that democracy cannot function through one-sided narratives and said that governments claiming to represent the people must also be willing to answer public questions. Using administrative and police machinery to suppress criticism, he added, is a sign of a weakening democracy rather than strength.
The former minister further said that governments confident in their performance should not fear scrutiny or misuse legal mechanisms to avoid accountability.
Calling journalists the backbone of democracy, Singla urged the media fraternity to remain fearless and assured them of his full support in protecting press freedom and independent journalism.
He also appealed to the people of Punjab to remain alert, warning that if the pillar of a free press weakens, the democratic structure itself could be at risk. He concluded by urging citizens to stand together in defence of truth and freedom, stating that true justice is impossible without a free and independent press.
