21 Aug 2022| 07:25am ISTIf the govt is a giver and the press the taker, then the pen cannot be the fourth pillar of democracyAll pillars must have independent roles for democracy to stand on four legsThe role of the fourth pillar of democracy has been in the realms of discussion, including what its role should be. The press as the fourth pillar, like other pillars, also welcomes constructive criticism from consumers of news which is even necessary because the press serves the people, who pay to be informed. While the executive is the choice of the people, the press is the voice of the people. Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant has very rightly recognised the press as the fourth pillar of democracy and accepted the role of the press to offer constructive criticism. But it is important that the press functions as a free independent pillar to allow the greater common good to happen to the people.

Source: The Herald August 20, 2022 21:14 UTC