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**MEA Secretary Sibi George Affirms Commitment to Constitutional Freedoms**

In a recent statement, Sibi George, the Secretary (West) of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), emphasized Indias commitment to upholding press freedoms, democracy, and human rights as enshrined in the Constitution. His remarks come amidst ongoing discussions about media freedoms and civil liberties in the country.

George articulated that the Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights, including the freedom of expression, which is crucial for a healthy democracy. He reiterated the governments dedication to ensuring that these rights are safeguarded while also addressing the need for responsible journalism.

The Secretarys comments reflect a broader dialogue about the balance between national security and individual freedoms, particularly in light of recent concerns raised by various organizations regarding media censorship and the treatment of journalists in India.

Furthermore, India ranks 150th out of 180 countries in the 2022 World Press Freedom Index, a drop from previous years, which highlights the ongoing challenges faced by media professionals in the country. The government has been invited to engage more proactively with civil society and press institutions to foster an environment conducive to free and fair reporting.

As the conversation continues, Georges statements serve as a reminder of the constitutional foundation that supports democratic practices and the ongoing efforts to protect these ideals in the contemporary political landscape.