Journalism, Democracy and Civil Society in India

This insightful volume examines the relationship between journalism and democracy in India, highlighting challenges and evolving practices in the media landscape.

Since gaining independence in 1947, India has maintained a stable and functioning democracy, despite facing numerous challenges. The emergence of a diverse and expansive media landscape, one of the largest in the world, has raised critical questions about the role of journalism in this democratic framework. Journalism, Democracy and Civil Society in India compiles insights from prominent scholars who explore the evolving practices of journalism and the implications for democratic discourse. They examine whether the rise of privately owned cable news channels can enhance democratic practices beyond merely reporting election outcomes.

The book delves into the complexities of neoliberal media ownership and its potential impact on fostering a critical and independent journalistic culture. Contributors address ethical dilemmas that editors and journalists encounter in a rapidly expanding media industry, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced in contemporary Indian journalism. Each chapter reflects on the historical, social, and cultural contexts that have shaped the evolution of journalism in India.

While the contributors share a common goal of understanding journalism's role in civil society and democracy, they arrive at varying conclusions. This diversity of perspectives enriches the discourse surrounding the relationship between media and democracy in India. Journalism, Democracy and Civil Society in India serves as a vital resource for those interested in the intersection of journalism, media ownership, and democratic practices in a complex social landscape.