I&B ministry withdraws fake news order after Modi steps in

The information and broadcasting ministry on Tuesday withdrew a controversial press release that said journalists found guilty of writing or broadcasting “fake news” would lose their government accreditation.

The move came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about the order in the wake of protests by journalists and media organizations. The fake news problem will be dealt with by the Press Council of India (PCI), Modi said.

The ministry’s order said journalists found guilty of writing or broadcasting “fake news” will have their accreditation withdrawn for a limited period or permanently, depending on the frequency of violations

The I&B ministry’s press release did not define “fake news” but said complaints would be referred for determination to the Press Council of India (PCI) for violations in print, and to the National Broadcasters Association for violations on TV.

As journalists protested against the press release and “fake news” became the top trend on Twitter Tuesday, Information and broadcasting minister Smriti Irani acknowledged the matter had “generated debate”.

In a tweet, she said she was “more than happy” to meet journalists for their suggestions on “fighting fake news”.

Government accreditation for journalists allows them to access ministries and enter restricted buildings or events. A journalist is accredited with the Press Information Bureau of the Centre after she/he has least “five years’ experience as a full-time working journalist.” Freelance journalists need to have 15 years experience and foreign correspondents five years with a valid work visa, says The Indian Express.