New Delhi Apr 5 (FN Bureau) The Congress’ manifesto on Friday promised to strengthen the system of self-regulation, protect journalistic freedoms, uphold editorial independence and guard against government interference when it comes to power. The party’s manifesto ‘Nyay Patra’ which was released by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said, “In the last ten years, significant sections of the media have been robbed of, or surrendered, their freedom. Congress will help the media re-discover the freedom that they enjoy under the Constitution”. The party said it will amend the Press Council of India Act, 1978 to empower the Council to deal with the menace of fake news and paid news, if it comes to power.
The party’s manifesto said it will defend independent journalism by enacting laws to protect journalists from coercive action by the state and check monopolies in media, cross-ownership of different segments of the media, and control of the media by business organisations by passing a law. The party’s manifesto says all media houses, irrespective of the size, will be required to disclose their ownership structures (direct and indirect), cross holdings, revenue streams, etc. through their websites. The Congress manifesto also promises to amend the Cinematograph Act, 1952, to ensure the Central Board of Film Certification grants graded certificates according to transparent and reasonable criteria.