Recent developments show the government’s increasing role in curbing fake news and misinformation. Legal frameworks and regulatory mechanisms have been strengthened across print, television and digital media. These efforts aim to uphold truth, protect public order and maintain sovereignty.
Regulation of Print Media
Print media must follow the Norms of Journalistic Conduct issued by the Press Council of India. These norms forbid publication of fake, defamatory or misleading news. The Council investigates breaches under Section 14 of the Press Council Act. It can issue warnings, admonish or censure newspapers, editors and journalists found guilty.
Television Media Controls
TV channels operate under the Programme Code of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995. The code prohibits obscene, defamatory, false or suggestive content. The 2021 Amendment introduced a three-tier grievance redressal system to handle complaints. Channels violating the code face appropriate action to maintain broadcast standards.
Digital Media and IT Rules, 2021
Digital news publishers abide by the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. These include a Code of Ethics for online content. The government’s Fact Check Unit, set up in 2019, verifies news related to central government and corrects misinformation via official channels.
Blocking and Content Removal Powers
Under Section 69A of the IT Act, 2000, the government can block websites, social media accounts and posts that threaten sovereignty, security or public order. Section 79(3)(b) mandates intermediaries to remove unlawful content upon government notification. Since 2025, 43 OTT platforms have been blocked for violations.
OTT Platforms and Content Regulation
OTT platforms must not transmit content prohibited by law. They are required to self-classify content by age according to guidelines covering nudity and sexual depiction. Adequate safeguards must restrict children’s access to inappropriate material. The government issued advisories in 2025 urging OTT platforms to comply with Indian laws and the IT Rules, 2021.
Role of Self-Regulation and Government Advisory
Self-regulatory bodies of OTT platforms play a key role in enforcing content standards. The government consults relevant ministries before issuing advisories. This collaborative approach aims to balance freedom of expression with social responsibility and legal compliance.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the challenges and effectiveness of legal frameworks in regulating digital media in India.
- Critically examine the role of the Press Council of India in maintaining journalistic ethics and its limitations.
- Explain the significance of Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. How does it impact freedom of speech and sovereignty?
- With suitable examples, discuss the regulation of Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms in India and the balance between content control and creative freedom.
