Fourth Estate in Indian Democracy
The fourth estate refers to the media, or the press, in a democratic system. It is called the fourth estate because it is considered to be a separate and independent branch of government, alongside the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
In Indian democracy, the fourth estate plays an important role in keeping the public informed about events and issues of public importance, holding the government accountable for its actions, and providing a platform for debate and discussion. The media in India is diverse, with a range of outlets including print media, television, and online platforms.
The media in India is protected by the freedom of expression guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, but it also has a responsibility to report accurately and fairly and to respect the privacy and dignity of individuals. The media is regulated by various laws and codes of ethics, and there are several organizations, such as the Press Council of India, that are responsible for ensuring that media outlets adhere to these standards.