According to the Index released by reporters without borders in 2017, India is ranked 136 in the world press freedom index among a list of 180 countries. Presumably, in defence of their action or inaction, the Indian government may argue that the current constraints on Indian media are predicated on the necessity for strong government control and influence in an effort to protect and provide consistent benefit to all people. However, these protections and influences are not impactful, if there is an inconsistent appreciation for them from the masses of people they claim to serve. Historically, it is said that concentration of power leads to corruption, and degenerate democracies devolve to panem et circenses. According to the data by committee to protect journalists, an independent, non profit organization that promote press freedom worldwide. 75 journalists have been killed in India since 1992.

The freedom of press is passing through a challenging phase in India with journalists are continued to be persecuted through cases and threats. A study – Silencing Journalists in India, launched today revealed that 65 journalists have been killed in the line duty from the year 2000 to 2018. The study ‘Silencing the Journalists in India’ has been published by Human Rights and Law Network (HRLN) in partnership with Press Club of India, Mumbai Press Club, Indian Women Press Corps, Delhi Union of Journalists, Brihmumbai Journalists Union and Media studies Group also complied the cases being initiated against journalists in an attempt to silence them. The book also features 31 journalists who were framed in various cases for their critical writing in 12 states between 2000 and 2018. Report: Silencing Journalists in India Violation of Journalists’ Rights in India - 2000-2018