Role of Media in Society

The Fourth Estate is an important pillar of our democratic system.The press enjoys freedom under Article 19 (1) (a) of the Constitution of India [Freedom of speech and expression] and should exercise this freedom in a responsible and proper manner so as to best serve the interests of the society.Freedom of the press reflects the very essence of the political liberty of a nation.But it seems in the present times the press [Electronic Media] have transgressed all limits of this freedom.They are behaving in a way, which, instead of serving their needs, are proving more harmful to the society by acting in a manner prejudicial to their interests.
The electronic media [news channels] have completely deviated from the purpose for which they are meant and it seems they have forgotten the meaning of the word 'news'.They are now the playing the diverse roles of a marriage counseller, investigative agency, legal consultant, policy maker and what not! They even intrude into the lives of people by interfering in their private affairs and showing them on television under the guise of airing it in public interest and public good.They thus invade the right to privacy enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
What interest of the society will be served if a couple sitting in a news studio are resolving their matrimonial disputes with the help of a news anchor? It is in a way undermining the position of the Courts, the conciliators meant for the purpose, marriage bureaus etc.
Though every fundamental right is subject to reasonable restriction in the interests of the society and the nation, it is hardly exercised in respect to the press.
The media vows to evolve a self regulatory mechanism every time a hue and cry is raised against this type of conduct.
The time has come that the Apex Court lay down certain guidelines for the conduct of the press and the media so that they may behave in a responsible manner enjoying their freedom in the right earnest.