Karnataka Records 247 Fake News Cases: Bengaluru Tops the Chart

Between 2021 and 2024, Karnataka reported 247 fake news cases, with Bengaluru leading at 99 cases, followed by Uttara Kannada (45 cases) and Kodagu (14 cases), according to government data.

Home Minister Dr. G Parameshwara emphasized measures to combat fake news, including the establishment of social media monitoring cells at district and police station levels. Additionally, WhatsApp groups involving beat police and citizens were introduced to enhance local surveillance.

In January 2024, a fact-checking cell was launched under the Director General of Police (Cyber Crime and Narcotics) in the CID. A multi-department coordination committee (MDCC), along with a special empowered committee (SEC) led by the Home Minister, was formed to address misinformation.

IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge revealed that the fact-checking unit identified over 1.5 lakh fake news instances involving threats and abuses, underscoring the need for a robust framework. The MDCC and SEC are collaborating to develop guidelines for detecting and investigating fake news.

However, the Opposition raised concerns. BJP chief spokesperson Ashwathnarayan Gowda criticized the Congress government for alleged misuse of fake news cases to target Opposition leaders. BJP intellectual cell convenor Y N Sharma accused the government of selectively policing and alleged harassment of BJP workers while ignoring other incidents like the Hubballi and DJ Halli riots.

The debate underscores the balance needed between addressing misinformation and avoiding political misuse.

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