Indian Media Caught in Severe Web of Censorship Under Modi Government

Contrary to its claims of being a democracy, India under Narendra Modi’s government has imposed serious restrictions on media freedom and the constitutional right to question those in power. According to the prominent Indian investigative publication The Wire, systematic censorship and state pressure during the current government have severely narrowed the space for independent journalism.

Misuse of Section 69A and Restrictions on Freedom of Expression

According to the report, the Modi administration has extensively used the controversial Section 69A of the IT Act, accelerating measures to block dissenting voices, independent journalists and critical platforms. Legal experts and journalists’ organizations say these expanded powers represent a direct assault on fundamental rights and freedom of the press guaranteed under the Indian Constitution.

Declining Public Trust in Media and Key Facts

Crackdown Under Section 69A: Digital content, social media accounts and journalistic material that challenge the government narrative are reportedly facing repeated restrictions.

Reuters Institute Survey: According to Indian journalist Pooja Prasanna, a survey by the Reuters Institute found that public trust in mainstream news in India has fallen to just 39 percent.

Growing News Avoidance: Amid state propaganda and one-sided coverage, 52 percent of Indians are reportedly avoiding mainstream news altogether.