REGISTRATION OF NEWSPAPERSCentral

Section 19F of The Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867

1[19F. Right of access to records and documents.--The Press Registrar or any gazetted officer authorised by him in writing, in this behalf shall, for the purpose of the collection of any information relating to a newspaper under this Act, have access to any relevant record or document relating to the newspaper in the possession of the publisher thereof, and may enter at any reasonable time any premises where he believes such record or document to be and may inspect or take copies of the relevant records or documents or ask any question necessary for obtaining any information required to be furnished under this Act.]

Summary

The Press Registrar or an authorized high-ranking official has the right to look at newspaper records.
These officials can enter any building where they believe newspaper documents are kept.
They are allowed to enter and inspect these documents at any reasonable time.
Officials can make copies of the records or ask questions to get the information they need.
This access is strictly for the purpose of collecting information required by the Act.

Practical examples

1In May 2026, a Gazetted Officer named Mr. Khan arrives at the offices of The Morning Herald at 2:00 PM. He shows his written authority and asks to see the circulation logs to verify their annual statement.

2An authorized official enters a printing warehouse in Chennai to photocopy documents that show who actually owns the printing presses, as part of an official inquiry.

FAQ

1. Who can access newspaper records under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867?

The Press Registrar or any Gazetted Officer, which is a high-ranking government official, authorized by him in writing can access records under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867.

2. When can an official enter premises under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867?

An authorized official can enter premises at any reasonable time to inspect records under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867.

3. Can an official take documents away under the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867?

Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, allows officials to inspect or take copies of relevant records, but it does not mention permanently removing them.

4. What can an official do if they have questions during an inspection under the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867?

Under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, the official may ask any question necessary for obtaining information required by the law.

Test yourself

Q1.Under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867, which type of officer can be authorized to access records?

Q2.What is the limitation on the timing of an entry under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867?

Q3.For what specific purpose is access granted under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867?

Q4.What action can an official take regarding documents under Section 19F of the Press and Registration of Books Act, 1867?

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