Media curbs undermine democracy: Editors Guild urges India to lift website bans
New Delhi: The Editors Guild of India has urged New Delhi to immediately lift restrictions on news websites, warning that India’s growing use of censorship and digital bans is undermining democratic values, press freedom and cross-border understanding in South Asia.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Guild said blocking access to news platforms—particularly those offering cross-border perspectives—has created a climate of fear and mistrust, instead of addressing concerns related to misinformation or unethical journalism.
In a statement issued in New Delhi, the Editors Guild acknowledged that there have been instances of media in both India and Pakistan crossing the bounds of balanced and professional journalism. However, it stressed that blanket bans and sweeping restrictions are neither justified nor effective.
“While such aberrations need to be dealt with more conscientiously, blocking all access is not the solution,” the Guild said, adding that censorship does not erase ground realities but only suppresses public discourse.
The Guild pointed out that indiscriminate blocking of news websites runs directly counter to the spirit of democracy and freedom of expression—principles India claims to uphold. It warned that the expanding use of digital restrictions reflects an increasingly intolerant approach toward dissenting voices and alternative narratives.
Emphasizing the importance of free flow of information, the Guild said unhindered access to news and viewpoints, especially between neighbouring countries, is essential for building trust, fostering dialogue and promoting peace in the region. “Untrammelled access to news, views, perspectives and information helps create an informed citizenry and aids meaningful engagement between peoples,” the statement said.
The Editors Guild called on the Indian government to reverse its policy of blocking news websites and restore access to cross-border journalism, urging authorities to address media ethics concerns through transparent and lawful means rather than censorship. Observers say the appeal highlights mounting concern within India’s own journalistic community over shrinking press freedoms and the increasing use of state power to control narratives in the digital space.
