Introduction
Media governance is no longer confined to traditional broadcasting authorities.
Television, cinema, OTT services, social-media platforms and digital publishers can fall within different regulatory frameworks.
Digital Media
The IT Rules, 2021 contain a Digital Media Ethics Code and intermediary due-diligence framework. The rules have continued to evolve, including significant developments concerning synthetically generated information and digital-media oversight.
Self-Regulation
Industry bodies also play a role in developing advertising and professional standards. Self-regulation can provide flexibility where legislation may be slower to respond to technological change.
The Governance Challenge
The difficulty lies in maintaining accountability without creating unnecessary restrictions on legitimate journalism, artistic expression and innovation.
Conclusion
Good media governance is not measured by the volume of regulation.
It is measured by whether the system creates predictable standards, meaningful accountability and appropriate safeguards while preserving legitimate freedom of expression.
