New Delhi, May 7 — India has slipped six places to 157 out of 180 countries in the 2026 rankings of the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index. The country now ranks lower than most of its neighbours, with Bangladesh at 152 and Pakistan at 153. This decline is a cause for concern, as China is the only country ranking below India at 178.
The Reporters Without Borders report notes that the Prime Minister does not hold press conferences and grants interviews only to journalists perceived as supportive. Journalists in India often face harassment, including from politically aligned online groups. The government's response to such reports is typically dismissive.
The 2026 rankings have sparked concerns about the state of press freedom in India. > "Democracy thrives on scrutiny, and without it, the system risks sliding toward authoritarianism." The government's actions are being closely watched, as data trends indicate a sharp rise in content blocking. In 2023, approximately 6,000 pieces of online content were blocked, which rose to 12,000 in 2024 and reached 24,000 by December 2025.
Press Freedom Under Threat
The decline in press freedom is not just a matter of ranking, but also of the actual restrictions being imposed on journalists and online content creators. The Indian government has been accused of curbing press freedom, with a focus on critics rather than harmful content. The IT Rules 2026 aim to eliminate the distinction between government directives and platform policies.
- Amendments to IT Rules 2026 reduce the ability of platforms to challenge government directives
- Platforms may be required to comply with government advisories without question
- The response window for action has been reduced from 36 hours to just a few hours
Censorship and Online Content
The increase in content blocking and account deletions has raised concerns about censorship and online freedom. The Shreya Singhal vs Union of India judgment had established a due process for content takedowns, but the new provisions seem to expand executive power. The classification of digital creators as "digital news broadcasters" has also sparked debate, with many arguing that it will stifle independent voices.
The Indian government argues that the regulations are necessary to combat fake news, deepfakes, and online scams. However, critics contend that enforcement appears disproportionately focused on journalists, commentators, and independent creators. The Reuters Institute reports that a growing number of Indians now rely on social media for news consumption.
Why India Should Pay Attention
The decline in press freedom and the rise of censorship are concerns that India should pay attention to. The Indian economy is heavily dependent on a free and fair media, and any restrictions on press freedom can have far-reaching consequences. As the country continues to evolve and grow, it is essential to ensure that the media remains free and independent, and that the voices of critics and dissenters are heard. The 2026 rankings of the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index should serve as a wake-up call for India to re-examine its commitment to press freedom and online freedom.
