Priyanshu Mohanty 
The truth shall set you free, but first it must be told by those brave enough to reveal it.
Journalism, often referred to as the “fourth pillar of democracy,” holds a position of immense responsibility. Journalists serve as the bridge between the people and those in power, breaking down barriers, unveiling truths, and ensuring transparency. Yet, the terminology used to describe their role, notably the term “watchdog,” often fails to capture the respect and dignity this profession deserves. During a recent seminar, one of the speakers proposed an alternative—vigilant. This, he argued, is a more fitting word to describe the role of journalists in society. The term vigilant embodies careful observation, awareness, and a readiness to recognize potential dangers. Unlike the passive connotation of a watchdog, being vigilant speaks to active engagement in protecting democratic values.
These words resonated deeply, reaffirming my choice to pursue journalism. The values, ethics, and depth of the profession are unmatched. The more I delved into its intricacies, the more I realized that journalism is not just about reporting events; it’s about shaping society’s consciousness by presenting the unfiltered truth. It is this responsibility that should make every journalist proud of their work, and the profession itself deserves to be honored accordingly.
However, the landscape of journalism today has dramatically shifted. The rise of digital media, social networks, and independent content creators has diluted the standards that once defined the field. The internet’s free flow of information is a double-edged sword—on the one hand, it democratizes access to news, but on the other, it floods the public with unverified information, devoid of the filters of professional integrity. Anyone can present themselves as a journalist without undergoing rigorous training or adhering to ethical standards.
This leads to an important question: Should journalism, like the other pillars of democracy, require some form of accreditation or licensing? Lawyers, judges, and elected officials must all go through formal qualifications and abide by codes of conduct. In contrast, anyone can claim to be a journalist, regardless of their commitment to truth, accuracy, or public responsibility. Without regulation, the profession runs the risk of being hijacked by those who prioritize sensationalism over substance, harming the very fabric of informed citizenship.
True journalism is not just about disseminating information; it is about influencing thought, shaping public opinion, and even changing the course of history. The impact of news—whether truthful or not—can alter the global landscape. Therefore, it is vital that journalism retains its credibility and is treated with the seriousness it deserves. Accreditation could be one solution to restore trust in journalism, ensuring that those who bear the title of “journalist” meet the standards necessary to fulfill their role in society.
In conclusion, journalism’s role as the fourth pillar of democracy must be preserved and protected. In an era where anyone with an internet connection can claim to report the news, the need for professional vigilance, ethical standards, and perhaps even formal accreditation has never been more urgent. Journalism is not merely a profession—it is the conscience of society, guiding it with facts, truth, and insight in times of uncertainty. As society evolves, so too must our approach to this vital institution. The truth is more than just information—it is the cornerstone of democracy, and those who deliver it must be entrusted with the highest responsibility.
