Press freedom is declining in India

The claim that press freedom is declining in India is supported by multiple reputable sources. According to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, India is ranked 159 out of 180 countries, indicating a significant decline in press freedom. This ranking places India below countries like Pakistan and Turkey, which are known for their restrictive media environments. The Hindu also reports that India's press freedom has eroded rapidly in recent years, with the country experiencing its lowest ranking ever in 2023 at 161. Freedom House's 2024 report highlights ongoing attacks on press freedom, including legal harassment, physical violence against journalists, and government pressure on media outlets. These findings are corroborated by the International Federation of Journalists, which describes a bleak picture of media freedom in India and South Asia. The decline in press freedom is attributed to various factors, including political pressure, legal challenges, and violence against journalists. Therefore, the statement that press freedom is declining in India is well-supported by recent and credible sources Freedom House, RSF, and The Hindu.