Dear Editor,
Your editorial, “Press freedom” (November 18, 2017), rightly pointed out, ~ “Quality journalism will happen only when there is respect for freedom of speech, expression and space.” Unfortunately, India has slipped three places from 133rd in 2016 to 136th this year in the World Press Freedom Ranking Index, which is released by the international free speech advocate Reporters Without Borders. In a political IPL match between the ruling and the opposition parties, the media must not be forced to take the role of cheerleaders of any one team in a democracy. Indeed, the fourth estate should be allowed to take the role of the third umpire to help the umpires (voters) on the field.
Yours,
Sujit De, Kolkata