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Source: The post is based on the article “Retrograde step – A government panel to check facts is liable to be misused against critics” published in The Hindu on 4th November 2023.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Internal Security – Role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security.
News: The article discusses concerns about Tamil Nadu’s government creating a fact-checking group to identify false information about its activities. Critics argue this could threaten free speech and lack independent oversight.
In April 2023, IT Rules 2021 were amended, allowing the central government to establish a Fact-Check Unit (FCU) to identify and remove “fake or false or misleading” content online.
In the wake of the Centre’s decision, Karnataka government and subsequently the Tamil Nadu government decide to constitute their own fact-checking units to tackle misinformation related to state matters.
What is the concern regarding the Fact-Checking Initiative?
Conflict of Interest: It raises concerns about bias since the government might not be neutral.
Potential for Censorship: Critics are worried that this unit could limit freedom of speech by controlling information.
Infringes on Rights: Changes to the IT Rules have been legally challenged for possibly infringing on constitutional rights.
The Bombay High Court has questioned whether such a government-run unit could operate without compromising the constitutional guarantee of free speech.
For more information on concerns surrounding the FCU, read here.
What should be done?
Specify Scope and Powers: The government should detail the scope and powers of their fact-checking unit, as suggested by the Editors Guild of India.
Independent Monitoring: Misinformation and fake news should be managed by independent organizations, not by the government, to avoid conflicts of interest.
Judicial Oversight: A system of judicial oversight should be established to prevent the misuse of the fact-checking powers by the government.
Prior Notice and Appeal: There should be a process that allows for prior notice before labeling information as false, and a right to appeal against such decisions.
Involve Stakeholders: Fact-checking initiatives should be set up with the involvement of journalists and other stakeholders to ensure a more impartial approach.
Question for practice:
‘The menace of fake news has necessitated the formation of fact-checking.’ However, the formation of the government’s fact-checking unit has raised various concerns. What are these concerns? Also suggest reforms to tackle the same.
