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"Problems will arise if everyone becomes a journalist"—Supreme Court’s significant observation regarding freelancers and 'reel-makers' at protests
Delhi: Currently, protests over various issues are taking place across the country, particularly in Delhi. During these demonstrations, alongside official representatives from registered media organizations, a large number of independent journalists, freelancers, and individuals creating 'reels' (social media content) are also present. Against this backdrop, a crucial question has emerged: can every individual be considered a journalist?
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Supreme Court on this very issue, seeking the protection of the freedom of expression for independent and freelance journalists covering these protests. During the hearing on Thursday, the Supreme Court made a significant observation.
Appearing before a bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, Senior Advocate Indira Jaising argued that the Delhi Police often deny access to independent or freelance journalists covering the protests, demanding official accreditation from the Press Information Bureau (PIB). She requested the establishment of a protocol to ensure that the police do not obstruct the professional work of journalists who possess identification cards issued by their respective organizations.
Responding to this, Justice Surya Kant sounded a note of caution, stating:
"We must keep one thing in mind. If every individual starts becoming a journalist, it could create problems for others."
Justice Joymalya Bagchi also expressed his views on the matter. He stated,
“It is necessary to examine whether the right to freedom of expression grants every citizen in the country the right to become a journalist. There are varying levels of protection for different categories—such as accredited journalists, those working for registered media organizations, independent journalists, influencers, or individuals who create ‘reels’.”
Justice Surya Kant reiterated that this matter requires detailed discussion and examination. He also raised the question: should there be a specific category of journalists who are granted greater protection?
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta remarked that in today’s digital age, anyone with a mobile phone can claim to be an ‘independent journalist.’ In reality, however, such an individual might simply be creating ‘reels’ to gain popularity on social media or to earn money. These ‘reels’ often present one-sided news or disproportionately amplify the significance of certain events.
These observations are likely to spark a broader debate regarding the rights and responsibilities of independent journalists, freelancers, and social media influencers.
Delhi: Currently, protests over various issues are taking place across the country, particularly in Delhi. During these demonstrations, alongside official representatives from registered media organizations, a large number of independent journalists, freelancers, and individuals creating 'reels' (social media content) are also present. Against this backdrop, a crucial question has emerged: can every individual be considered a journalist?
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Supreme Court on this very issue, seeking the protection of the freedom of expression for independent and freelance journalists covering these protests. During the hearing on Thursday, the Supreme Court made a significant observation.
Appearing before a bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, Senior Advocate Indira Jaising argued that the Delhi Police often deny access to independent or freelance journalists covering the protests, demanding official accreditation from the Press Information Bureau (PIB). She requested the establishment of a protocol to ensure that the police do not obstruct the professional work of journalists who possess identification cards issued by their respective organizations.
Responding to this, Justice Surya Kant sounded a note of caution, stating:
"We must keep one thing in mind. If every individual starts becoming a journalist, it could create problems for others."
Justice Joymalya Bagchi also expressed his views on the matter. He stated,
“It is necessary to examine whether the right to freedom of expression grants every citizen in the country the right to become a journalist. There are varying levels of protection for different categories—such as accredited journalists, those working for registered media organizations, independent journalists, influencers, or individuals who create ‘reels’.”
Justice Surya Kant reiterated that this matter requires detailed discussion and examination. He also raised the question: should there be a specific category of journalists who are granted greater protection?
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta remarked that in today’s digital age, anyone with a mobile phone can claim to be an ‘independent journalist.’ In reality, however, such an individual might simply be creating ‘reels’ to gain popularity on social media or to earn money. These ‘reels’ often present one-sided news or disproportionately amplify the significance of certain events.
These observations are likely to spark a broader debate regarding the rights and responsibilities of independent journalists, freelancers, and social media influencers.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Supreme Court on this very issue, seeking the protection of the freedom of expression for independent and freelance journalists covering these protests. During the hearing on Thursday, the Supreme Court made a significant observation.
Appearing before a bench comprising Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, Senior Advocate Indira Jaising argued that the Delhi Police often deny access to independent or freelance journalists covering the protests, demanding official accreditation from the Press Information Bureau (PIB). She requested the establishment of a protocol to ensure that the police do not obstruct the professional work of journalists who possess identification cards issued by their respective organizations.
Responding to this, Justice Surya Kant sounded a note of caution, stating:
"We must keep one thing in mind. If every individual starts becoming a journalist, it could create problems for others."
Justice Joymalya Bagchi also expressed his views on the matter. He stated,
“It is necessary to examine whether the right to freedom of expression grants every citizen in the country the right to become a journalist. There are varying levels of protection for different categories—such as accredited journalists, those working for registered media organizations, independent journalists, influencers, or individuals who create ‘reels’.”
Justice Surya Kant reiterated that this matter requires detailed discussion and examination. He also raised the question: should there be a specific category of journalists who are granted greater protection?
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta remarked that in today’s digital age, anyone with a mobile phone can claim to be an ‘independent journalist.’ In reality, however, such an individual might simply be creating ‘reels’ to gain popularity on social media or to earn money. These ‘reels’ often present one-sided news or disproportionately amplify the significance of certain events.
These observations are likely to spark a broader debate regarding the rights and responsibilities of independent journalists, freelancers, and social media influencers.
