Parliamentary Panel Summons Media Bodies Over Curbing Fake News

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on IT has called media bodies NBDA and EGI to discuss measures against fake news. With increasing concerns over misinformation on social media, the panel is considering new laws, including those targeting content that fuels unrest. The government’s previous fact-checking initiative was recently overturned.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology, led by BJP's Nishikant Dubey, has summoned representatives from two prominent media organizations—the News Broadcasters and Digital Association (NBDA) and the Editors Guild of India (EGI)—to discuss measures for curbing fake news. The meeting, scheduled for November 21, will focus on combating the spread of misinformation, especially on social media platforms, a growing concern for policymakers.

The committee aims to review current systems and propose new laws or regulations to address fake news more effectively. One recommendation under consideration is the introduction of dedicated laws to counter fake news, which could include stricter government measures, particularly for information that causes social or religious unrest. The panel will also focus on false information targeting political figures and other prominent individuals.

While the term "fake news" lacks a formal definition in Indian law, the Information Technology Rules of 2021 (amended in 2022) require intermediaries to prevent false or misleading content. The government’s effort to establish a fact-checking unit for government-related information through a 2023 amendment was recently struck down as unconstitutional by the Bombay High Court.

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In response to the growing threat of misinformation, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) bill seeks to modify the Indian Penal Code, proposing penalties such as imprisonment or fines for spreading false information, especially with the intent to create enmity.