Spreading False Information on Social Media Could Result in 7-Year Jail Term Under Karnataka’s New Law

Karnataka Proposes Sweeping Legislation to Combat Fake News on Social Media

The Karnataka government is set to introduce what may become India’s most stringent regulatory framework to combat fake news and misinformation on social media platforms. The proposed Karnataka Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025, outlines the formation of a six-member social media regulatory authority and special courts empowered to imprison offenders and levy substantial fines.

According to details from the draft bill, individuals found guilty of sharing unverified information could face up to seven years of imprisonment and fines reaching Rs 10 lakh. The legislation also proposes two to five years of imprisonment and monetary penalties for spreading misinformation through social media or other publications. All offenses under this bill would be treated as cognizable but non-bailable.

The scope of the bill extends beyond traditional fake news to include content that insults women or disrespects Sanatana Dharma, its symbols and beliefs. It also aims to restrict materials that promote superstition, reflecting broader cultural and religious sensitivities in the region.

To ensure enforcement, the government has proposed establishing special courts with the concurrence of the Karnataka High Court. These courts would operate under the presidency of sessions judges covering one or more districts and would have the authority to issue directives to intermediaries, publishers, broadcasters, or anyone controlling communication channels that disseminate misinformation to residents of Karnataka.

The draft legislation includes provisions for due process, allowing aggrieved parties 30 days to respond to any notice issued. Non-compliance with the court’s directions could result in simple imprisonment of up to two years and daily fines of Rs 25,000, with a maximum penalty of Rs 25 lakh.

Corporate accountability is another key aspect of the proposed legislation. The bill recommends action against directors and employees of companies if they were present when their organization committed an offense under the act. Additionally, it calls for the appointment of special public prosecutors in each special court to handle cases related to fake news and misinformation.

The proposed regulatory authority would have significant oversight responsibilities, particularly ensuring that online content in fields such as science, history, religion, philosophy, and literature is based on authentic research. This represents an unprecedented level of content regulation for digital platforms operating in India.

The bill provides clear definitions of what constitutes fake news and misinformation. Fake news is defined as misquotation, false reporting, or manipulative editing of audio or video that distorts facts or context, including completely fabricated content. Misinformation involves knowingly or recklessly making false factual statements, either wholly or partially.

Importantly, the bill makes exceptions for opinions, religious sermons, satire, comedy, parody, and artistic expression, provided that a reasonable person would not interpret such communications as factual statements.

This proposed legislation comes amid growing concerns about the impact of misinformation on public discourse and social harmony in India. Several states have been considering regulatory frameworks to address digital misinformation, but Karnataka’s approach appears to be the most comprehensive and stringent to date.

The bill, if passed, could significantly alter the landscape of social media usage and content moderation in Karnataka and potentially influence similar legislation across other Indian states. It represents a major shift in how digital content is regulated, raising important questions about the balance between combating harmful misinformation and protecting freedom of expression.