Discuss the role of the 'Fourth Estate' in upholding democratic values and analyse the issues affecting press freedom in India.

Fourth Estate refers to the press and media in 20th century, but social media is also included in Fourth Estate in present times. Role of Fourth Estate in upholding democratic values: 1) Ability to facilitate dissent and freedom of expression at speech (A-19(2)(-1)) 2) Awareness of public improved => Accountability of executive improved 3) Connectivity with NGOs => PIL, Pressure groups 4) Spread of political values, professment indirectly 5) Connectivity between government and people (Mann ki Baat by PM) 6) Creation of positive political attitude

Issues affecting press freedom: 1) Legislation such as Official Secrets Act, Indian Evidence Act and Parliamentary privileges (A-102, 121) 2) Media's politicization 3) Archaic laws such as UAPA under national security (preventive detention) 4) Foreign media has higher regulation FCRA 5) Sudden raids of media houses by IT officials Press (4th Estate) is the important arm of democracy and is complementing Civil Society, and government.