Explain the importance of freedom of press as an outcome of democracy.
Answer
Freedom of the press keeps citizens informed, acts as a watchdog on power, and promotes accountability and transparency, thereby strengthening democratic governance.
Step-by-step solution
- Define freedom of the press as the liberty for media to report without censorship.
- Explain that this informs citizens and provides them with diverse viewpoints.
- Show how it holds government accountable by exposing misuse of power.
- Mention a real‑world example, e.g., investigative coverage during the 2015 Assam riots.
- Conclude that these functions enable a responsive and responsible democracy.
Common mistake: Treating it merely as a right rather than a functional outcome
Concept tested: Role of press in democracy
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