In a democracy built on words, truth should never be treated as a weapon. Yet, an alarming trend has emerged  the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), a law meant to combat terrorism, is increasingly being used to silence journalists.From newsrooms to courtrooms, the fight for press freedom is turning into a battle for survival. Reporters who dare to question authority, expose corruption, or highlight human rights violations now find themselves accused of “unlawful activities.”

Each arrest under this law sends a chilling message  that speaking truth to power can cost one their freedom. But journalism, at its heart, is not an act of defiance  it is an act of democracy.When truth is punished and silence rewarded, the very soul of free speech begins to fade.Because a nation that fears its journalists is a nation afraid of its own reflection.