BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
At the recent “Satta Sammelan hosted by TV9 Bharatvarsh”, Akhilesh Yadav shared a simple yet meaningful thought about the role of media in a democracy, one that struck a chord for its clarity and relevance. He said, “When the fourth pillar performs its true duty, democracy becomes stronger and is better able to fulfill its responsibilities.” It wasn’t just a formal statement; it felt like a reminder of something essential that often gets overlooked in everyday political noise.
In a democracy, the media is more than just a source of news. It is the voice that asks questions when others hesitate, the platform that brings public concerns to light, and the bridge that connects people with those in power. Yadav’s point was straightforward: when the media does its job honestly and responsibly, everything else begins to function better too.
His remarks come at a time when information travels faster than ever. News breaks within seconds, opinions spread instantly, and narratives can shift overnight. In such an environment, staying accurate, fair, and balanced is not easy, but it is more important than ever. Without trust in the media, people are left uncertain about what to believe, and that uncertainty can weaken the very foundation of democracy.
What made his statement stand out was its balanced tone. It wasn’t confrontational or overly political. Instead, it quietly highlighted a shared responsibility. The media must remain truthful and independent, and in return, it helps ensure that governments stay accountable and transparent. There’s also a deeper connection here. When people trust what they see and hear in the news, they feel more confident in participating in public life, whether that means voting, raising issues, or simply staying informed.
In that sense, a responsible press doesn’t just report on democracy; it actively strengthens it. In the end, Akhilesh Yadav’s words were less about criticism and more about reminding everyone, journalists, leaders, and citizens alike, of their roles. A strong democracy isn’t built overnight. It grows when its institutions work with honesty and purpose, and among them, a free and responsible media remains one of the most important pillars.
