I&B Ministry’s Move on Fake News

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.