DAV University Hosts Panel Discussion on Press Freedom and the Changing Role of Media

Jalandhar, November 14, 2025: DAV University, Jalandhar, organised a panel discussion on “Freedom of the Press vs Responsible Journalism: Finding the Balance” at the Mahatma Hansraj Auditorium on Thursday.
The event began with a welcome address by Dr Gitika Nagrath, Dean, CBME and Humanities, who welcomed the guests and briefly introduced the theme. She noted that discussions on press freedom and responsibility are essential in an age where information flows rapidly and journalistic ethics face new challenges.
Prof (Dr) Manoj Kumar, Vice Chancellor, speaking on the occasion said, “Freedom of the press is one of the strongest pillars of democracy, but it cannot exist in isolation. Journalists must uphold truth, fairness, and accountability, especially today when information travels at lightning speed. If freedom becomes detached from responsibility, the media risks losing public trust. Our students must learn to strengthen—not erode—the democratic fabric through ethical journalism.”
Echoing these sentiments, Prof (Dr) S.K. Arora, Registrar, emphasised the challenges posed by the digital information age said, “The speed with which news circulates today makes credibility more important than ever. Verification, balance, and ethical caution are not optional—they define the dignity of the profession. As future media professionals, students must resist sensationalism and embrace transparency. The media’s purpose must always be to inform, not mislead.”
A distinguished panel featuring Prof (Dr) Sanjeev Bhanawat, Retired Professor & Former Head, Centre for Mass Communication, University of Rajasthan, Prof Kamlesh Singh Duggal, Retired Professor & Former Head, Department of JMC, GNDU Regional Campus, Jalandhar, Prof Dilip Kumar, Regional Director & Course Coordinator (English Journalism), IIMC Jammu, Prof Rubal Kanozia, Associate Professor & Head, Department of Mass Communication and Media Studies, Central University of Punjab, Mr Anil Gupta, Media Professional and Academician, New Delhi, Mr Rajeev Bhaskar, Senior Media Professional, Jalandhar and Ms Sujata Prashar, Media Professional, New Delhi, who moderated the event examined the evolving meaning of “freedom” in journalism. The speakers reflected on the media’s historic role during India’s independence movement and expressed concern that increasing media ownership has reshaped the sector’s purpose and autonomy.
Panellists also discussed how excessive media frequency contributes to misinformation, how limited incentives are affecting quality journalism, and how portions of the media are transitioning from being a watchdog to functioning as a lapdog, thereby weakening their capacity to question authority.
An engaging question–answer session followed, with students asking questions related to verification, news distribution, and the technological challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Queries focused on AI detection of fake news and deepfakes, potential risks to press freedom, responsible AI use in newsrooms, algorithmic influence on audience exposure, digital threats to journalists, required skills for future media professionals, and emerging innovations expected to shape journalism.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Manpreet Kaur, Coordinator, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, who appreciated the panellists and students for their active participation, “Such discussions help students understand both the opportunities and the responsibilities that define today’s media landscape,” she said.