Mandatory registration for fact checkers: The digital era has bestowed upon us a multitude of boons, yet with its conveniences come some significant challenges. Among the most menacing of these is the rapid spread of misinformation, which often spreads faster than the truth itself. In this battlefield of narratives, truth often becomes the first casualty, lost amidst the cacophony of baseless rumors and half-truths.
Recognizing this dilemma, the Central Government of India has decided to pull out its trump card and fortify its defences against the deluge of disinformation.
Let’s understand the consequences of the recent decision to make registration of fact checkers mandatory and how this news is not just a simple policy change, but a groundbreaking decision that is reshaping the face of online discourse in India. can shape.
āRegistration of Fact Checking Mandatoryā
In an unprecedented move, the Central Government is contemplating making registration mandatory for online fact-checkers under the ambit of the upcoming Digital India Bill. This means fact-checkers, who have thus far operated in the vast and somewhat lawless landscape of the Internet, may soon require a registration certificate to continue their operations. Essentially, the Indian government is emphasizing that the power to arbitrate truth comes with a fair share of responsibility. This proposed regulation could be a significant stride towards enforcing this principle in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
HUGE – Central Govt likely to make Registration mandatory for Online Fact-Checkers under the upcoming Digital India Billš„š„
Fact checkers may need registration certificate to operate as the centre looks to seek greater responsibility from themā” Follow our handle for more news.ā¦
— Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) June 23, 2023
According to a senior official who spoke to The Indian Express, the Ministry is in the final stages of drafting this historic bill. The proposed legislation contains some intriguing clauses, including the exclusion of ānon-legacyā fact-checking bodies from the registration process. The implementation of this bill will be carried out in a phased manner, giving only established and reputable media companies the privilege to seek registration in the initial phase.
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Two targets hit with a stone!
So, why is this proposed mandate so critical? The reasons are twofold. Firstly, it would weed out the notorious peddlers of fake news, such as Mohammad Zubair, Supriya Shrinate, Harsh Mander, among others. These individuals and organizations, who often hide behind the facade of ‘fact-checking’ to propagate their personal agendas, would not just lose their recognition but will also be subjected to the rule of law. For those who thrive in a landscape marred by confusion and chaos, this prospect of regulation is as appealing as a thunderstorm on a beach day.
āFake News se darr nahi lagta saheb, Wo toh humare apne hain…ā
āFact Checkers se lagta hai..ā
~Govt pic.twitter.com/O69j9x90Yf
— Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) June 22, 2023
Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, this measure would usher in an era of increased transparency and accountability within the realm of online fact-checking. While fact-checking plays an essential role in debunking falsehoods and disseminating accurate information, the lack of stringent regulatory guidelines has often resulted in the propagation of biased narratives under the veil of ‘fact-checking.’ This move could significantly reduce such instances, enabling the truth to triumph over hearsay and conjecture.
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Terror amongst hate mongers!
Predictably, the proponents of unregulated fact-checking have already begun raising alarm bells. The Trinamool Congress, among others, have expressed their disapproval of this proposed move, and so has the āfact checkerā in chief, Mohammad Zubair. Ironically, their vociferous protests only underscore the potential efficacy of this proposed legislation. The Central Government, it seems, has managed to hit the bullseye, taking aim where it hurts the most.
.@BJP4India's Monopoly on fact-check!
The impending Digital India Bill seeks to enforce compulsory registration of fact-checkers under the Government's authority.
In PM @narendramodi's New India, there will be two distinct categories of facts:
1. Facts
2. Government approvedā¦— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) June 22, 2023
This game-changing decision sends a clear and loud message to all the stakeholders in the digital landscape: In the war against misinformation, there is no room for unregulated, unchecked, and unaccountable fact-checking. This is a testament to the country’s commitment to uphold the truth and protect its digital sphere from the scourge of fake news. And that, dear readers, is a fact that requires no checking!
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