Feb
26
Prosecuting Bloggers: All about Citizen Media Power and Responsibility too
Filed Under Public Interest
Bloggers seem to be easy picking for the powerful. In this case, it is Shiv Sena who has sued a blogger for ‘defaming’ the party - and the Supreme Court giving the political party a ‘fair’ chance to seek legal redressal. Click here to read a news story on this issue.
What is my view on the matter? Here goes: (You can also read a piece in CXO Today where I have been quoted)
Blogging is a form of media just like any other: newspapers, internet, radio and television. The laws and rules of conduct that apply to the latter should apply likewise to blogging.
We must appreciate that blogging gives the power and freedom to citizens to exercise their opinion, and it should not be curtailed in any form. However, what may be a matter of concern is the ability to beat down bloggers because they are individuals without any support system. Political parties, courts and other legal authorities may find it easy to intimidate them through force and the threat of legal action. As a society, we should not allow this to happen.
At the same time, bloggers and other citizen journalists should realise that power and freedom does not come without responsibility. Blogs and social media are public platforms like any other, and what they say on these affects society and the nation. Just like journalists do, all information and opinion should be based on verified facts and not hearsay. With full attribution being given to sources.
If the above principles can be kept in mind by all concerned, then all citizens and entities are within their legal rights to seek redressal and express themselves as allowed in a free and fair democracy.
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2 Responses to “Prosecuting Bloggers: All about Citizen Media Power and Responsibility too”
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Looks like have a good advocate ready first before you venture to speak some uncomfortable truth.
You are right Vinod - you never who in power in India will get after you.