Why in news?
The Information and Broadcasting Ministry withdrew its order which was earlier issued to regulate fake news.
What did the order specify?
- I&B ministry recently released a notification on fake news.
- Under it, accreditation of any journalist found guilty of disseminating “fake news” could be cancelled.
- The complaints would be referred to the Press Council of India if they pertained to the print media.
- It would be referred to the News Broadcasters Association (NBA) if they are related to the electronic media.
- The regulatory agencies would have 15 days to dispose off a complaint.
- During the period of probe, the journalist’s accreditation would be suspended.
- The note further said that on first violation, the accreditation would be suspended for 6 months.
- The suspension on the second violation would be for a year and, on the third violation, it would be cancelled permanently.
What are the concerns with this?
- Many media stakeholders and opposition agitated against this.
- The move was seen as draconian since it paves the way for government’s interference in press freedom.
- The notification released by the ministry did not define the phrase “fake news”.
- The I&B order will only affect the accredited journalists.
- Various news portals were not covered by the government’s accreditation policy.
- It is also said that government did not consult on “Media Ethics” with organisations like the PCI and NBA before passing this order.
- Following the outrage from the media and the Opposition, the Ministry has decided to withdraw its order.
Source: The Hindu
Quick Fact
News Broadcasters Association (NBA)
- The News Broadcasters Association (NBA) represents the private television news and current affairs broadcasters.
- It is an organization funded entirely by its members.
- The NBA presents a unified and credible voice before the Government, on matters that affect the growing industry.
Press Council of India
- The Press Council of India is an autonomous, statutory, quasi-judicial body.
- It governs the conduct of the print media.
- It is also empowered to hold hearings on receipt of complaints and take suitable action where appropriate.
