Karnataka to launch Information disorder tackling unit to counter fake news and hate speech

The Karnataka government will establish an Information Disorder Tackling Unit, jointly led by the Home Department and the IT-BT Department, to enable faster coordination with social media platforms and ensure prompt action against harmful online content, IT-BT, and e-Governance, said Home Minister Priyank Kharge.

As part of the initiative, the government will appoint dedicated points of contact between the new unit and major social media platforms and create a rapid-response communication mechanism to facilitate swift action against misinformation, fake news and hate speech.

Mr. Kharge said the move follows a recent consultation with representatives of the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and leading digital and social media platforms.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the government and technology companies to identify and respond quickly to online content that could threaten public safety, law and order, and social harmony.

He said the proposed framework is aimed at tackling misinformation, fake news and hate speech, which have a direct impact on governance, public safety and law and order. The government, he added, is committed to building a safe, transparent and responsible digital ecosystem through sustained collaboration with digital platforms and other stakeholders.