K’taka govt to initiate firm action against fake news; plans meeting with Facebook, Twitter, and Google

Bengaluru: In a proactive move, the Karnataka government has announced the creation of dedicated cyber wings in each police station to combat the spread of fake news.

Additionally, the government intends to convene a meeting with representatives from Facebook, Twitter, Google, and other prominent social media platforms.

During a press briefing held on Wednesday, Dr. G. Parameshwara, the Minister for Home, stated, " A meeting of representatives of Facebook, Twitter, Google and other social media platforms is being called soon. The number of persons indulging in circulating fake news is steadily growing and this will be contained."

"Whoever creates fake news and circulates it will be dealt with by initiating legal action. The action is certain no matter which political outfit one belongs to," the state Home Minister said.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday directed the authorities to track down the origins of fake news campaigns. The order has been issued following rampant fake news campaigns being carried out on social media platforms after the new Congress government assumed power in the state.

Also Read:Delhi riots 2020: Key suspect in murder of police officer HC Rattan Lal apprehended

The officers have also directed to identify those who are spreading false news and initiate legal action against them. Siddaramaiah had a detailed discussion with state Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara regarding the order.

"In 2013, when the then Congress government assumed power, the fake news menace had cropped up. This time also political opponents are adopting the same tactic. The attempts are being made in the backdrop of fast approaching Lok Sabha elections. They are indulging in the circulation of more and more fake news and there is a possibility of creating unrest in the society," the statement from the Chief Minister's office said.

The Chief Minister asked the authorities to take action in the beginning itself by cutting off the roots.

During the BJP rule, the forces have tried to circulate false news on child lifters, transportation of cow meat, etc., said the CM.

"The people have rejected the BJP and Sangh Parivar with conviction and ruthlessness. There are signs of orchestrating clashes between groups, rioting through the fake news at a time when there is preparation for the Lok Sabha elections.

"Necessary action must be taken in this regard. Earlier, there was a dedicated technical team at the Bengaluru Police Commissionerate and state Police Headquarters. They detected fake news and warned people by conducting fact checks.

"However, this was stopped when the BJP came to power. This must be restarted," Siddaramaiah told police officials.

The Chief Minister has instructed the cyber police to get ready to detect fake news and give a report on this on a monthly basis, the official statement added.

With inputs from agencies

Also Read:Either give free rice or quit: Union minister slams K'taka govt