The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) amended guidelines for journalists spreading fake news. On Monday evening, during a press release, the Ministry stated journalists found guilty of propagating fake news would have their accreditation suspended or permanently canceled.
The press release also stated the Press Council of India and News Broadcasters Association (NBA) would be tasked with determining fake news. The two regulatory bodies for print and television media are not regulated or operated by the Government. The MIB Minister Smriti Irani clarified her Ministry would define the punishment for fake news.
Once the fake news is confirmed by the regulatory bodies, the MIB will suspend the journalist’s accreditations for 6 months for a first offense. The second violation will cost the journalist 1 year and a third would result in permanent cancellation.
Surprisingly, the Secretary General of the NBA Annie Joseph stated she was not aware of this order. Further stating there was no consultation with the NBA before the order was released by Smriti Irani’s department.
