SRINAGAR: The Government of India has told the Lok Sabha that it is aware of the increasing circulation of fake, false and misleading information across social media, digital platforms and private television news channels, but clarified that a complete ban on news channels or social media is not under consideration. Instead, the government said it relies on an existing statutory and institutional framework to curb misinformation while safeguarding free speech under Article 19(1) of the Constitution.
Responding to Starred Question, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said a comprehensive system is already in place to deal with violations across electronic, print and digital media. For television, he said channels are bound by the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, which prohibits obscene, defamatory or deliberately false content, including suggestive innuendos and half-truths. Violations are addressed through advisories, warnings, apology scrolls and, when necessary, temporary off-air orders. A three-tier grievance redressal mechanism operates at the broadcaster, self-regulatory body and government oversight levels.
For print media, the Minister said the Press Council of India enforces its Norms of Journalistic Conduct, which restrain the publication of fake or misleading news. The PCI examines complaints and may warn, admonish or censure newspapers, editors and journalists found violating these norms.
On digital platforms, Vaishnaw said the Information Technology Rules, 2021 require publishers of news and current affairs to follow a Code of Ethics. Intermediaries are obligated to prevent users from sharing patently false or misleading information. Digital publishers must also maintain a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism, with platform-appointed Grievance Officers mandated to resolve complaints within fixed timelines. The Minister added that the government issues orders under Section 69A of the IT Act when necessary in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, public order, or to prevent incitement to cognisable offences.
The government also highlighted the role of the Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check Unit, which verifies news related to the Central government through authorised sources and publishes corrections on its platforms.
Vaishnaw told the House that this multi-layered framework aims to balance creative freedom with the need to curb the harms caused by misinformation, and that the focus remains on regulation and accountability rather than blanket bans.
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