Government Strengthens Framework to Combat Fake News and Deep Fakes across Media Platforms

Free speech is protected under Article 19(1) of the Constitution. The Government is cognisant of the increasing instances of fake, false, misleading information and AI-generated deep fakes across media platforms, which can adversely impact democratic processes and public order.

Fake news is commonly understood as information that is false or misleading and presented as news. A broad statutory and institutional framework already exists to address such harmful content across various media platforms.

Electronic Media

• TV channels follow the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995
• It prohibits content that is obscene, defamatory, deliberately false, or that contains suggestive innuendos and half-truths.
• Rules framed under the act establish a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism to address violations.
  • Level I – Self-regulation by the broadcasters
  • Level II – Regulation by broadcasters’ self-regulatory bodies
  • Level III – Oversight mechanism by the Central Government

Violation of the Programme Code is addressed through advisories, warnings, apology scrolls, temporary off-air directions, etc.

Print Media

• Norms of Journalistic Conduct issued by Press Council of India restrain the publication of fake, defamatory, or misleading news.
• PCI can inquire into alleged violations of these norms.
• PCI duly examines complaints and takes measures such as warning, admonishing or censuring the newspaper, editors, journalists, etc.

Digital Media

Code of Ethics has been framed under IT Rules 2021 for publishers of news and current affairs on digital media:

• Intermediaries must prevent users from sharing misinformation or information which is patently false and untrue or misleading in nature.
• A three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for adherence to the Code of Ethics is also provided.
• Grievance Officer is appointed by platforms to handle complaints related to false or defamatory content within a fixed timeframe.
• Part II of the IT Rules, inter alia, casts an obligation on intermediaries to prevent the dissemination of information that is patently false, untrue, or misleading in nature.

The government issues the orders under Section 69A of the IT Act in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States or public order or for preventing incitement to the commission of any cognizable offence relating to above.

Fact Check Unit

The Fact Check Unit (FCU) is set up under the Press Information Bureau to check fake news relating to the Central Government.

• It verifies the authenticity of news from authorised sources in Ministries/Departments of the Government of India.
• FCU then posts correct information on its social media platforms.

The Government is strengthening institutions and the trust that forms the foundation of society. Its approach is to safeguard the creative freedom while addressing the harms caused by misinformation.

This Information was submitted by the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting,  Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Rajya Sabha today in response to questions asked by Mohammed Nadimul Haque