Define fake news, cancel journalist credentials if needed, says report in Parliament

A Parliamentary panel has asked the government to explore the feasibility of amending the penal provisions for publishing or telecasting fake news to include cancelling the accreditation of the journalist or the creator found guilty of indulging in such an act, according to a report tabled in Parliament on Tuesday.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, chaired by BJP member Nishikant Dubey, also asked the government to define the term ‘fake news’, and incorporate suitable clauses in the existing regulatory framework for the media to combat misinformation and protect freedom of speech.