August 12, 2025

New Delhi witnessed a fiery talk from former Chief Justice of India, Justice Sanjiv Khanna. At the Prem Bhatia Journalism Awards, he made a striking point: news reporting can change how people think and behave — even more deeply than judicial verdicts! The ex-CJI called the press and judiciary the two great sentinels guarding our democracy against excesses of power. "Judgments do have an impact on society, but news reporting can change the way we think and behave," said Justice Khanna. He warned that news isn’t just neutral facts; it quietly stirs our minds every moment. In a vibrant democracy, he emphasized, media must remain pure without bias or polarization. He explained that while the judiciary acts with nuance and weighs facts carefully, media speaks more directly. Still, both aim to "speak truth not to provoke, but to preserve and strengthen democracy." These institutions live on public trust, built by reason, fairness, and independence. Any bias or misinformation hurts this trust and the rights we hold dear. Reflecting on India’s 75 years of freedom, Justice Khanna asked, "Has freedom of speech grown to include new voices, deeper dissent, and modern ways of expression?" He highlighted dangers too: political overreach, fake news, and economic pressures challenge this freedom daily. "You share stories and articles, we argue cases and give judgments. But our goal is one: protect truth and liberty," he said. The ex-judge urged responsible journalism that tells whole stories without inflaming emotions or narrowing debates. Accuracy and fairness are musts. He also cautioned the media against "yellow journalism"—sensationalism that harms democracy. Justice Khanna criticized fast news and social media for weakening people’s ability to think deeply. "Our youth are losing the power of serious reflection," he said sadly. He pointed to TV debates and online battles where no topic is safe from fiery fights but no constructive bridges are built. Finally, he reminded everyone that although media and judiciary are different, their health depends on each other. "The Constitution gives each a clear role. Neither should interfere with the other," said the former CJI. His colorful speech was not just a lesson but a wake-up call for all Indians to value truthful news and strong courts, the twin pillars of any vibrant democracy.

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Tags: Judiciary, Media, Freedom of speech, Justice sanjiv khanna, News reporting, Democracy,