Freedom of the Press in India: Constitutional and Legal Framework

Abstract

The legal framework of freedom the press in a democracy like India has been inspired by international bodies such as the United Nations, US Constitution and British Constitution. The basic documents of the United Nations and reputed International Bodies recognized the predominant position of freedom of speech and expression as a basic democratic right. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948 (Art. 19) reads: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression, this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any medium and regardless of frontiers.”