New Delhi: The Government of India stated that Article 19(1) of the Constitution protects free speech. At the same time, it noted a rise in fake, false, and misleading information on digital media platforms.
To tackle this issue, the government notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. It issued the rules under the Information Technology Act, 2000, on February 25, 2021. The rules seek to strengthen accountability. They also aim to safeguard constitutional protections for free speech.
The IT Rules 2021 define ethical standards for digital publishers. Part III of the rules lays down a Code of Ethics for publishers of news and current affairs. The Code requires compliance with the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks Act, 1995. It also mandates adherence to the Norms of Journalistic Conduct under the Press Council Act, 1978.
Further, the rules introduce a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism. This mechanism ensures compliance with the Code of Ethics. In addition, Part II of the rules assigns specific responsibilities to intermediaries such as YouTube and Facebook. These platforms must prevent the spread of patently false, untrue, or misleading information.
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Dr. L. Murugan shared this information in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha. He responded to a question raised by Dr. Laxmikant Bajpayee.
