Defamation, Fake News and Media Ethics: Balancing Free Speech & Accountability

Every coin has two sides and likewise media which evolved as a strong weapon also has positive and negative aspects. In the present times where “media is considered as fourth pillar of democracy and also age of digitalization” where media is easily reachable to all sectors of the society it has led to the magnification of some serious concerns like fake news which may lead to unrest and misinformation and defamation which contravenes with the fundamental right of person to lead to a reputed and dignified life. In this scholarly discourse, the author intends to overview the concept of defamation and fake news while highlighting the role of media in it. The author further discusses mechanisms of defamation and fake news along with its impact on individual and society while throwing light on extent of “freedom of speech and highlighting the case studies”. The discerning analysis aspires not only to expound upon role of media in defamation and fake news but also to enrich with media ethics and regulations while focusing on the challenges still pertaining. The author concludes the paper by making suggestions and recommendations to address the challenge.