By Sara Nazir

In the world's largest democracy, an unsettling reality has taken root: journalists—once hailed as the guardians of truth—now live in fear. With India ranked 159 out of 180 in the Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, the climate for media professionals has become increasingly hostile. This isn't just a statistic; it's a harrowing reflection of the lives impacted daily by a culture of intimidation and violence.

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration, the dangers facing journalists have escalated alarmingly. Each year, an average of three to four journalists are killed for simply doing their jobs. These aren’t just numbers; they represent real people—reporters, editors, and photographers—who risk everything to uncover the truth. They are fathers and mothers, friends, and colleagues, committed to holding power accountable, only to face threats that silence their voices and stifle their work.

The roots of this fear run deep, entwined with a government that has weaponized laws to target dissent. Since the BJP took power in 2014, journalists have been subjected to harassment, intimidation, and violence. In Kashmir, where tensions are high, reporters are not just afraid of the political landscape but also face threats from security forces that limit their ability to report freely. These journalists are often compelled to censor their own work or risk severe repercussions.

In contrast, neighboring Pakistan, despite its own struggles, often provides a slightly more open environment for media. While challenges exist, the lethal violence against journalists in India stands as a grim reminder of the stakes involved. This disparity raises crucial questions about the health of democracy, national security, and the vital role of free expression.

Today, as we observe the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, we are reminded of the gravity of the situation. Over the past two decades, more than 1,668 journalists have been killed worldwide, many of their murders going unsolved. This day, established by the UN in memory of two French journalists murdered in Mali, underscores the pressing need for accountability and protection for those who dare to report the truth. With 320 journalists imprisoned and 67 still missing as of 2024, the urgency is clear.

The persistence of violence and intimidation, particularly in India, highlights a global crisis. It’s not just about statistics; it’s about lives disrupted and families shattered. The Committee to Protect Journalists reveals that over 2,374 journalists have been killed since 1992, many in silence, their stories left untold. This culture of impunity poses a direct threat to democracy, allowing misinformation and propaganda to flourish in the absence of critical voices.

Ethical journalism—rooted in truth, accuracy, and accountability—is essential for a healthy democracy. Yet in India, these principles are increasingly under siege. The rise of "Godi media," a term for outlets that serve the ruling party rather than the public interest, reflects how the media landscape has been co-opted, abandoning its watchdog role in favor of political allegiance.

Recent events, such as government raids on the BBC and the arrests of journalists for their critical reporting, paint a bleak picture of the current state of press freedom. These actions not only endanger local reporters but also send a chilling message to foreign correspondents, deterring them from covering sensitive topics. When journalists are silenced, it reverberates throughout society, leaving citizens uninformed and vulnerable to manipulation.

The plight of journalists in India serves as a stark reminder of their essential role in democracy. They are often the first line of defense against corruption and abuse of power, willing to put their lives on the line for the public good. When their voices are muffled, the very foundations of democracy begin to crumble, leaving society in darkness.

Now, more than ever, we must act. The international community needs to unite in support of journalists, advocating for their safety and the restoration of a free press. The future of democracy in India—and beyond—depends on it. In a world where truth is under siege, we must ensure that the voices of those who dare to speak out are amplified, not silenced. The fight for press freedom is not just about journalism; it is a fight for the soul of democracy itself.