Legal Framework Needed to Combat Fake News, Speaker Urges

Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Speaker Calls for Comprehensive Legislation to Combat Fake News

Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather has called for the development of a comprehensive legal framework to address the growing challenge of fake news and misinformation in the Union Territory. Speaking during a short duration discussion in the Assembly, Rather emphasized that misinformation poses serious implications for governance, public trust, and social harmony.

The Speaker stressed that any proposed legislation must carefully balance the need to curb misinformation with protecting democratic values, particularly freedom of expression. Rather urged the government to undertake extensive research on existing legal frameworks and best practices from other states and countries before drafting such legislation.

“The legislation should aim to establish a robust and credible mechanism capable of countering fake news while safeguarding responsible communication,” Rather stated. He also expressed strong disapproval of the absence of senior Information Department officials during the discussion, describing it as a “casual approach” toward a matter of serious public importance.

BJP MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania, who initiated the discussion, highlighted the government’s inadequate response to fake news, noting that despite the rising threat, not a single individual has been penalized for spreading misinformation. The Information Department has only issued about 20 rebuttals so far, according to Pathania.

“While freedom of expression is a fundamental right, the right to receive correct and verified information is equally important,” Pathania emphasized. He advocated for mandatory removal of fake content within 36 hours and cited recommendations from a December 2025 Parliamentary Standing Committee report that called for clear definitions of fake news, prescribed penalties, and the establishment of Fact Checking Units (FCUs).

Pathania proposed a comprehensive framework for Jammu and Kashmir that would include mandatory registration of all news-disseminating social media platforms, appointment of grievance redressal officers, creation of a UT-level Fact Checking Unit, citizen reporting mechanisms, and digital literacy programs.

Legislators across party lines expressed concerns about the misuse of social media and the lack of regulatory mechanisms. NC MLA Bashir Ahmad Veeri noted that while media has historically contributed to social progress, there’s a disturbing trend of individuals with mobile phones engaging in unethical practices. Congress MLA Iftikhar Ahmad called for a clear policy to register social media journalists, while NC legislator Sajjad Shaheen described the trend of unverified individuals posing as journalists as alarming, alleging some platforms are being used for extortion.

Several legislators shared personal experiences with fake news, including NC MLA Khurshied Ahmed, who said his image was tarnished by false local social media reports following an accident in his constituency. BJP MLA Pawan Gupta pointed out the regulatory gap between local cable networks, which are regulated through district-level committees, and social media platforms that operate with minimal oversight.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary acknowledged these concerns and assured that the government would take necessary corrective measures. He emphasized that while regulatory intervention is necessary, self-discipline within the media industry is equally important.

“No law can be effective without self-regulation and ethical conduct,” Choudhary stated, urging media professionals to act responsibly and uphold journalistic values. He added that a strong and responsible media is essential for strengthening both Jammu and Kashmir and India as a whole.

The debate underscores the growing recognition of social media’s influence in shaping public opinion and the challenges governments face in regulating digital platforms while respecting freedom of expression. With the rapid proliferation of smartphones and internet access across India, including in Jammu and Kashmir, establishing effective guardrails against misinformation has become increasingly urgent for maintaining social cohesion and public trust in institutions.

Speaker Rather concluded the discussion by reiterating the urgent need for a comprehensive legal framework to tackle fake news while preserving democratic freedoms, directing the government to examine best practices from other jurisdictions.