The Editors Guild of India has voiced concerns over the decision of the Karnataka government to establish a fact-checking unit to monitor fake news on social media platforms. The Guild argues that independent bodies should handle efforts to combat fake news in order to prevent potential misuse by the government to stifle dissent. It emphasized the need for any monitoring framework to follow principles of natural justice, including prior notice, the right to appeal, and judicial oversight. The Guild also called for the establishment of fact-checking units through consultation and involvement of stakeholders, including journalists and media bodies, to ensure press freedom is protected.

The Guild has already filed a petition in the Bombay High Court challenging the amendments to the IT Rules 2023, which permit the creation of a ‘fact-checking unit’ that grants the executive branch sole authority in determining what constitutes fake news and enables content takedown orders.

Karnataka’s IT & BT Minister, Priyank Kharge, has stated that posts and reports flagged as fake by the fact-checking unit will be removed, and penal measures can be taken under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code if necessary.

The Editors Guild’s concerns come amidst ongoing debates surrounding misinformation and the power of governments to regulate online content. The Guild’s statement emphasizes the importance of protecting press freedom and ensuring that any efforts to combat fake news are carried out transparently and independently, with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders.