The Second Press Commission of India recommended the removal of Section 5 of
(A) The Press Council Act, 1978
(B) The Official Secrets Act, 1923
(C) The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971
(D) The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867
Correct Ans: (B)
Explanation:
The Second Press Commission of India examined laws affecting press freedom. It recommended removing Section 5 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923 because it restricted journalistic work. This section penalized the unauthorized sharing of official information, even when the disclosure served public interest.
The British government originally enacted the Official Secrets Act to suppress dissent. After independence, India retained the law, but many argued it hindered investigative journalism. Section 5 dealt with leaks of information from government sources, making it difficult for journalists to report on governance issues.
The Commission suggested its removal to ensure transparency and support investigative journalism. It believed that excessive secrecy limited press freedom, which is essential in a democracy. However, despite these recommendations, the government did not repeal Section 5. Instead, it continued using it in sensitive cases.
Other laws mentioned in the options serve different purposes. The Press Council Act, 1978 governs the Press Council of India, which upholds journalistic standards. The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 deals with matters affecting the judiciary’s dignity. The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867 regulates the registration of newspapers and books.
Thus, the Second Press Commission’s recommendation aimed to balance national security with press freedom, ensuring journalists could report without fear of legal action.
