Press Council of India, Composition, Functions

The Press Council of India is a statutory, quasi-judicial autonomous body re-established in 1979 under the Press Council Act, 1978. Initially formed in 1966 under the Indian Press Council Act, of 1965, it was based on the recommendations of the first Press Commission, led by Justice G. S. Rajadhyakhsa.

Despite the changes in legislation, the twin objectives of the Press Council of India, which are to preserve press freedom and uphold journalistic standards, have remained consistent.

About Press Council of India

The Press Council of India (PCI) is a statutory quasi-judicial autonomous authority, re-established in 1979 under the Press Council Act, 1978. Its primary objectives are:

• Preserving the freedom of the press.
• Maintaining and improving the standards of newspapers and news agencies in India.

Press Council of India Composition

The Press Council of India seeks to improve the quality and standards of newspapers and news agencies throughout the country. The Council is a body corporate having perpetual succession consisting of a Chairman and 28 members.

• Chairman: The Chairman, typically a retired Supreme Court judge, is nominated by a committee that includes the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and an elected representative from the 28 members.
• Other Members: Of the 28 members, thirteen represent working journalists, which include six editors and seven other working journalists, other than editors of newspapers.
  • Six members represent newspaper owners or managers, with two each from large, medium, and small newspapers.
  • One member comes from the news agency sector.
  • In addition, the Press Council of India comprises five representatives from Parliament—three nominated by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and two by the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
  • Three members representing education, law, and literature are nominated by the University Grants Commission, Bar Council of India, and Sahitya Akademi.

Press Council of India Powers

The Press Council of India (PCI) functions not only as a watchdog over the press but also aims to inspire a fresh perspective within the journalistic fraternity. It is founded on the belief that in a democratic society, the press must balance both freedom and responsibility. The Press Council of India holds following powers while fulfilling its responsibilities:

• Advisory Role: The Press Council of India holds an advisory role, enabling it to conduct studies and express opinions on bills, legislation, and other matters related to the press, either suo-motu or upon referral by the government.
• Cognizance of Public Issues:  It can also take cognizance of public issues concerning its statutory duties and form Special Committees to conduct on-the-spot inquiries.
• Actions for Violating Journalistic Ethics: The Press Council of India can address complaints regarding violations of journalistic ethics or misconduct by editors or journalists.
  • It may investigate these complaints, summon witnesses, take sworn testimony, and request public records.
  • Additionally, the Press Council of India may issue warnings or admonish newspapers, news agencies, editors, or journalists.
• Authority to Safeguard Press Freedom: Additionally, the Council has the authority to comment on any authority, including the government, for interfering with press freedom. Its decisions are conclusive and cannot be contested in any court.
• Limitation on Powers: The powers of the Press Council of India are limited in two key ways.
• Limited Authority in Enforcing Guidelines: It has restricted authority in enforcing its guidelines, as it cannot impose penalties on newspapers, news agencies, editors, or journalists for violations.
• Limitations in Regulating Electronic Media: While PCI oversees the operations of print media, it does not have the jurisdiction to regulate electronic media such as radio, television, or internet platforms.

Press Council of India Functions

The Press Council of India works to uphold the integrity and standards of the press, ensuring its role as a cornerstone of democratic society. As the fourth pillar of democracy, the media, including the press, plays a crucial role in disseminating information and protecting the rights and voices of citizens.

• • In this context, the Press Council helps newspapers maintain their independence and builds a code of conduct for journalists and news agencies.
  • It also ensures “high standards of public taste” while promoting responsibility among citizens.
  • The PCI monitors developments that could limit news circulation, helping to protect the free exchange of information.