The latest World Press Freedom Index by global media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) paints a concerning picture for India’s media landscape. The country’s ranking has slipped to 161 out of 180 countries, a worrying decline from the previous year’s position of 150. This downward trend raises significant concerns about the state of press freedom in the world’s largest democracy. In contrast, neighbouring Pakistan has shown some improvement, securing the 150th rank, a slight advancement from its previous position of 157. Sri Lanka has also made strides, moving up to the 135th position from its previous rank of 146. These developments highlight the importance of safeguarding media freedom and the critical role it plays in democratic societies. Norway, Ireland, and Denmark occupy the top three positions in press freedom, reflecting their commitment to upholding the principles of free expression and an independent media. On the other end of the spectrum, Vietnam, China, and North Korea find themselves in the bottom three, underscoring the significant challenges faced by journalists in these countries. India’s slipping press freedom ranking is a cause for concern. A vibrant and independent media is vital for a robust democracy. It plays a critical role in holding those in power accountable, providing citizens with reliable information, and fostering public debate. A decline in press freedom undermines these fundamental pillars of democracy and poses a threat to transparency, good governance, and the public’s right to know. It is essential for the Indian government to recognize the significance of a free and independent media and take necessary steps to protect and promote press freedom. This includes ensuring the safety and security of journalists, creating an environment that fosters investigative journalism, and addressing any undue political, economic, or social pressures that hinder media freedom. A free press is not just a privilege for journalists; it is a right for every citizen.