Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary today said that the media, regarded as the fourth pillar of democracy, has historically played a significant role in the nation’s freedom struggle and enjoyed the trust of the people.
The Deputy Chief Minister was replying to the issues raised by the Members during a Short Duration Discussion on tackling fake news and misinformation in the Legislative Assembly. He observed that times have changed and with the advent of social media, which was initially expected to improve people’s lives, has also brought new challenges.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that while the government will take necessary corrective measures, but the media must also introspect and work towards strengthening its credibility, reflecting on how it wishes to be remembered by the society.
He said that the media has important role to play for strengthening of J&K. “A strong J&K will lead to strong India. For this we all have to play the role,” he said.
He added that Media, being called as the fourth pillar of democracy, has a great responsibility and urged the media professionals to follow their conscience and act responsibly, adding that no law can work effectively without self-discipline and ethical conduct.
The Deputy Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the members for participation in the debate and raising significant issues concerning ethical information dissemination by the media.
Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, while speaking during the discussion, emphasized that genuine and responsible media practitioners should be encouraged and promoted. He stressed that those involved in spreading fake news, misinformation and disinformation must face exemplary punishment in order to uphold credibility in the media space.
Earlier, the House witnessed a broad consensus across party lines on the need to curb fake news and misinformation, with members calling for stronger measures while safeguarding freedom of speech and expression.
MLA, Ranbir Singh Pathania, while initiating the discussion on tackling fake news and misinformation in Jammu & Kashmir, said that while freedom of speech is a fundamental right, it must be protected from being misinterpreted and misused. He called for a robust regulatory framework, proposing a 36-hour takedown mechanism, clear district-level definitions of fake news, and effective corrective measures.
Highlighting the rise of unregulated digital platforms, particularly on Facebook and Instagram, he stressed the need for mandatory registration and regulatory oversight.
Pathania also advocated for a UT-level Fact Check Unit (FCU) and grievance redressal systems on social media platforms. Citing global frameworks like the Online Safety Act and the Digital Services Act, along with measures in Singapore and Indian states like Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh, he stressed on adopting the best practices in J&K.
He proposed a multi-pronged approach, including an FCU, stakeholder involvement, citizen reporting mechanisms, coordination with national initiatives, timely clarifications and defined takedown timelines.
Pathania emphasized that the key challenge is ensuring accountability while addressing impunity, reiterating the need for a balanced framework to curb misinformation while safeguarding democratic values.
MLA, Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri stated that in the present times, misinformation has taken deep roots and is impacting almost every aspect of public life. He cautioned that if not curbed in a timely manner, it could have serious consequences for society and governance.
He emphasized that all stakeholders must play a constructive role and urged that accountability must be clearly fixed, expressing hope that the government will take effective steps in this regard to ensure responsible communication and curb the spread of misinformation.
MLA, Iftikhar Ahmad said that the media has an important role to play in society, and while many are doing commendable work, some elements are unfortunately indulging in the spread of fake news. He stressed the need for a clear policy framework, suggesting that minimum qualifications and standards be prescribed for individuals practicing journalism to uphold credibility and professionalism.
MLA, Sajjad Shaheen also stated that there should be minimum qualification criteria for individuals engaged in media and information dissemination and the space should not be a free-for-all. He emphasized that unverified and misleading content must be effectively restricted, calling for proper regulation to determine eligibility and accountability of those operating in the digital and media space.
MLA Khurshied Ahmed in his address said that the media forms the fourth pillar of democracy and lauded those who are performing their duties responsibly for the benefit of society.
He, however, noted that certain elements indulge in spreading fake news and stressed that strict provisions should be put in place to take such elements to task, including the imposition of appropriate penalties to ensure accountability and deter misinformation.
MLA Pawan Gupta, while speaking on the occasion, raised concerns over several media outlets and channels operating without proper authorization from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. He noted that many platforms function without requisite licenses, underscoring the need for strict regulatory measures to tackle the spread of fake news.
MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan (Gurezi) stated that with the ease of creating channels and digital portals, individuals are increasingly entering the information space without adequate regulation. He cautioned that once a person’s image is tarnished through false or misleading information, it becomes extremely difficult to restore, highlighting the serious consequences of fake news.
He pointed out that there is a lack of comprehensive legal provisions to regulate such channels and platforms, while strongly advocating for enacting a robust law to effectively tackle this growing menace.
MLA Rafiq Ahmad Naik suggested that there should be strict legal provisions to effectively curb the spread of fake news and misinformation. He observed that people today are well aware and informed and therefore emphasized the need for responsible dissemination of information, cautioning against the misuse of digital platforms for misleading narratives.
MLA Nizam-ud-din Bhat observed that the media landscape has undergone a significant evolution, bringing both the opportunities and challenges in the dissemination of information.
He noted that the rise of provocative content and instances of defamation has become a matter of concern, stressing that if society is to be kept informed through accurate and factual information for the collective good, it is essential to ensure that this right is not infringed upon.
Bhat added that legal provisions already exist and emphasized the need for their effective implementation to safeguard truth and accountability in the media space.
He further remarked that the issue is fundamentally one of ethics, urging all stakeholders to adhere to responsible practices and uphold the integrity of information dissemination.
MLA Dr.Rameshwar Singh stated that while there are many responsible media professionals, there are also individuals without requisite qualifications who indulge in defamation and tarnishing of reputations. He stressed the need for regulatory oversight and accountability, suggesting that a proper system be put in place to verify credentials and curb such practices.
MLA, Dr.Sajjad Shafi, while speaking during the discussion, emphasized that there should be a minimum educational qualification for individuals entering journalism to ensure responsible reporting in the interest of society. He hailed the role of professional media persons but also stated that some fake media persons indulge in black mailing.
He noted that members across party lines are in agreement on the need for a law to regulate the sector and curb the spread of fake news, reflecting a shared commitment towards accountability and responsible media practices.
MLA Saif-ud-Din Bhat stated that while many journalists are doing commendable work, there are some who unfortunately indulge in the spread of fake news. He emphasized the need to distinguish responsible journalism from misinformation, and called for measures to uphold credibility and accountability in the media space.
MLA Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah stated that the media has a crucial role in holding the government accountable and strengthening democratic institutions.
He clarified that the intent is not to target genuine media houses but stressed the need for a proper regulatory mechanism to ensure accountability. He further suggested that District Development Commissioners be authorized to monitor and oversee media activities at the local level, so that responsibility can be clearly fixed on those misusing the platform.
MLA Sham Lal Sharma observed that professional ethics and values in the media space are witnessing a decline, stressing the need to uphold the rule of law.
He noted that while laws and monitoring mechanisms already exist, there is a need for the Government to be more proactive in their implementation. He urged to put in place suitable mechanism at District level to curb misuse of social media and to check fake news.
Sharma further suggested the formation of a House committee, in coordination with Accredited media representatives, to strengthen oversight and ensure adherence to ethical standards and accountability in the dissemination of information.
MLA Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi stated that the State must effectively perform its duties to ensure that laws are implemented in letter and spirit.