There could be little doubt over the necessity of a free media in any society. The Media; the fourth pillar of the every democracy, not only holds the mirror to society but is the powerful channel of communication. The importance of free media is recognized world over and all important international conventions and declaration include it as a basic human right.

The freedom of media in simple words means the right to receive and collect information of public importance from all primary and authenticated sources and to disseminate it through all legitimate sources. Hence, a special duty is imposed on the media; which is, to not only inform the general public of various issues and subjects but also at the same time to build
their opinion and to reflect them in proper form.

Print media or simply speaking press is important part of this media. But in India Constitution does not clearly provide for freedom of press. The Freedom of speech and expression is said to include the freedom of press also under Article 19 (1) (a). However, with the increasing importance of imparting of information and its possible availability, press is not only a
means of expression but is a mode of receiving information as well and a means of providing the 'right to know' to the people. The term "Freedom of Speech and Expression", includes the liberty to propagate not only one's views but also the right to print matters which have been borrowed from someone else or are printed under the direction of that person and also includes the liberty of publication and circulation. Though restrictions as contained under
Article 19(2) are equally applicable to the media but it is primarily for the Media itself to determine what are its corresponding responsibilities and obligations.

The crucial question is: media/press for whom and for what. Once this has been defined, a suitable structure can be formed to achieve those objectives. In a country like India where are so much of diversities and differences among people, the media has to provide right kind of information, highlight people's issues, promote understanding among diverse sections of
society and strengthen our democracy, pluralism and social unity. Further, Media also has the national responsibility to report successful outcomes of the legislatures to ensure good
governance in system.

But Only an express incorporation of this freedom would ensure due exercise of other such rights.An informed society certainly contributes substantially towards creating an informed democracy. Keeping this thing in mind National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution [NCRWC] proposed that the Article 19 (1) (a) which refers to 'freedom of
speech and expression' must expressly include the freedom of the press and other media, the freedom to hold opinion and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas.

Ms. Hema Takkar has done good work on the freedom of print media and had provided valuable information both from national and international law. She has also cited views of various intellects on this subject which are specially noteworthy. Expecting same quality work from her in future, I congratulate her for the present work.