Karnataka Inches Closer Towards Having Its 'Information Disorder Tackling Unit' — More Details

The Government of Karnataka (GoK) has announced its intentions to combat misinformation, disinformation, malinformation, and fake news by establishing an 'Information Disorder Tackling Unit'.

Earlier, when the fact-check unit was announced, and punishment was being planned for those who perpetrate fake news, Editors Guild of India and several prominent citizens expressed their concern regarding the establishment of such a unit, stating that it impedes privacy and oversteps the boundaries of how much the state can get involved in matters pertaining to free speech and expression.

The recently floated Expression of Interest (EoI) invites agencies to participate in the empanelment process for setting up this unit. IT-BT minister Priyank Kharge tweeted the following:

1. Fact Verification Team: This group will consist of impartial fact-checking organizations chosen by the state government to detect and address false information.

2. Analytics Squad: Utilizing advanced technologies such as data analytics and Artificial Intelligence, this team will actively oversee the ecosystem of misinformation.

3. Capacity Development Team: This team will lead public awareness campaigns to educate people about the presence and consequences of the misinformation ecosystem. The deadline for proposal submission is October 16, 2023.

There are concerns about the potential misuse of this unit for suppressing dissent or critical voices under the guise of combating misinformation. It is essential that the unit operates transparently, independently, and within the bounds of democratic principles to avoid undermining freedom of speech and expression.

The timing of this initiative also raises questions.

Recently, the Karnataka government lodged an FIR against news anchor Sudhir Chaudhary for allegedly reporting 'fake news'.

Chaudhary was booked at the Seshadripuram police station in Bengaluru on multiple counts, many of which are non-bailable offences, according to the sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The complaint was filed by an official belonging to the Karnataka Minorities Development Corporation.