Government tightens IT Rules to curb false and misleading online content

Free speech is guaranteed under Article 19(1) of the Constitution. At the same time, the Government of India has taken note of the growing incidence of fake, false and misleading information on digital media platforms. Accordingly, it notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 under the Information Technology Act, 2000 on February 25, 2021.

Part III of the Rules provides for a Code of Ethics to be followed by publishers of news and current affairs content, including adherence to the Programme Code prescribed under the Cable Television Networks Act, 1995 and the Norms of Journalistic Conduct under the Press Council Act, 1978. The Rules also establish a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism to ensure compliance with the Code of Ethics.

Further, Part II of the IT Rules places obligations on intermediaries such as YouTube and Facebook to prevent the dissemination of information that is patently false, untrue or misleading.

To address fake news relating to the Central Government, a Fact Check Unit (FCU) was set up under the Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in November 2019. After verifying information with authorised sources in various ministries and departments, the FCU disseminates accurate information through its social media platforms.

Additionally, under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Government issues orders to block websites, social media handles and posts in the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of the State and public order.

The Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L. Murugan, shared this information in the Rajya Sabha today in response to a question raised by Dr. Laxmikant Bajpayee.