Fake News in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ordered his minister to withdraw an order that sought to “punish” journalists accused of fake news. This move to overturn a crackdown on fake news has been controversial but is an area that nations across the world are looking to deal with both politically and technically.

Smriti Irani, India’s Information minister announced that the government would suspend the accreditation of journalists found producing fake news. The order had also proposed amended guidelines for obtaining accreditation.

In a fightback, Indian journalists and editors referred to it as an “attack on press”.

Part of the problem for India as elsewhere is how to define fake news. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had justified its order, saying it was needed to combat “increasing instances of fake news” but with no explanation as to that definition.

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) accreditation allows reporters significant benefits, including access to government buildings and official events.

Mr Modi’s quick withdrawal of the information ministry’s notification has concerned many but can also be read as a cautious move. One thing for sure is this discussion will be rolling on for some time.