No civilised society can live without the press. More so, democracy cannot survive without a free press. It always keeps people posted with new, and informative political and social developments. Editorial comments often serve as a guide to the government for constructive works. People give vent to their feelings through the letters to the editors.
In countries with dictatorial form of government free press is unthinkable. Voices of the people are totally ignored and the press is gagged. It can say only what is allowed by the authority. Criticism of any government action is unthinkable. Here the press acts only as a mouthpiece of the government. But in a democratic country press being free has an important role to play. It can mobilise public opinion and bring down any stable government by taking public opinion with them. It gives information about the proceedings of the parliament and assemblies and the political development of the country. In a democratic country press has the right to criticise any action of the government and high officials. Naturally, it keeps then on their tenterhooks. It can make or mar any politician's career. The government in a democratic country are often guided by the constructive criticism of the press. The press in a democratic country is the strongest weapon against misrule and injustice and it should therefore act in a very responsible manner. (229)
