India, Oct. 4 -- From Benito Mussolini and Winston Churchill to Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manish Sisodia, journalists have shaped public opinion, entered politics and occupied positions of power. Others have moved into government as advisers and spokespersons, highlighting the complex relationship between the press and political authority.

Journalism and politics have long shared a close, sometimes uneasy, relationship. Both involve shaping public opinion, setting agendas and influencing the way people understand events. For some, the newsroom has been a starting point for a political career. Others have moved from political writing and editing to Parliament, ministerial office or positions advising those in power.

The transition has tak...