The Karnataka government is planning to introduce a landmark law that aims to address the alarming rise of fake news on social media platforms. The new Karnataka Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025 is expected to take effect before the next cabinet meeting, with provisions for serious penalties for those engaged in the dissemination of misinformation. According to a report from the Karnataka government, the bill is designed to combat the exponential growth of fake news, which canykill public safety, grow health risks, and undermine democratic governance. The law is anticipated to catalyse a sweeping societal and legal response by stakeholders.
The bill highlights the types of offenses that are illegal and sanctionable. Individuals found guilty of intentionally falsifying information that threatens public health, safety, peace, or elections, are to face imprisonment of up to seven years, personal alrightness of ₹10 lakh, or both. Additionally, those who share misinformation that disrupts public order or electoral processes could face a minimum of two years of imprisonment, especially if extended. The bill alsoBAR the interchange of such content either within Karnataka or globally, and the creation of two years of imprisonment for aiding or abetting the dissemination of misinformation.
The bill largely explains the legal concept of "misinformation," which is defined as a false or misleading factual assertion. It includes a range of legitimate and illegal acts, such as reports biased for prearrival都已经 issues, which may include satirical content. However, it excludes incapable individuals who do not comprehend the importance of accuracy or are incul阙ous to misinterpret false claims. An example of legal satire would be a humorous inquiry about thefox rising to the moon, even though it is not declared to be factual or questions its reality.
Exceptions to the bill are upheld if the misinformation is malicious or dangerous. For instance, if someone spreads misinformation merely forёмulation impractical purposes, such as increasing traffic congestion or aiding in a terrorist attack, they would faceifferent penalties. Such examples illustrate the considerations under the bill and highlight the potential legal contexts for its application.
The bill also aims to revoke all platforms that disseminate fake news, meaning no one can upload, post, or share such content once the law is enacted. To enforce this, the Karnataka Fake News on Social Media Regulatory Authority (FNASRA) is introduced as a facilitator. The authority includes the minister for Kannada and Culture, along with representatives from the Legislative Assembly and Assembly,sr Minister for Kannada and Culture, and senior IAS officers appointed by the state. This division ensures a constructive approach to managing the landscape of fake news.
The bill also emphasizes the importance of——- justice in the judiciary, with special courts dedicated to investigating these offenses. These courts will handle cases of investigates and have custodial provisions in place. Additionally, the law calls for at least one public prosecutor special to each special court and another for total vicarious court. This dual approach ensures that the legal system is thorough and fair, with safeguards for both experienced and emerging lawyers.
The bill is part of a broader effort by the Karnataka government to prepare the state for a digital future where misinformation can be as troubling as real news. By.camelcing the spread of fakenews, the government aims to ensure that digital platforms remain reliable and even when they are used for morally wrong actions. The bill reflects a commitment to democratic and public safety, as real news must be resilient against any form of online manipulation.
In conclusion, the Karnataka Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025, is a significant move that will bring a planned teeth-test to the global narrative of digital misinformation. While the legal framework is entrenched, the bill reflects a strategic sense of responsibility, home in on the growing threat of fake news. As theProductName South prepaid, In同步 with Bengaluru’s bike taxi dilemma, this legislative machinery aims to create hurdles for those who try to capitalize on its potential, ensuring that truth prevails as ever. The bill will pave the way for a more ethical and resilient online world, underpinned by justice and public safety.
