Jammu :Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary Friday said that the media, regarded as the fourth pillar of democracy, has historically played a significant role in the nation’s freedom struggle and enjoyed the trust of the people.
The Deputy Chief Minister addressed concerns raised in the Legislative Assembly regarding the challenges posed by fake news and misinformation, particularly in the context of social media’s evolution. He emphasized the need for the government to implement corrective measures while urging the media to reflect on its credibility and societal role. The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted that a strong Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) contributes to a strong India, underscoring the media’s responsibility as the fourth pillar of democracy. Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, called for the promotion of responsible media practitioners and suggested that those spreading misinformation should face strict penalties to maintain media credibility. A consensus emerged among assembly members on the necessity of curbing fake news while protecting freedom of speech. MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania proposed a robust regulatory framework, including a 36-hour takedown mechanism for fake news, district-level definitions, and the establishment of a Fact Check Unit (FCU) to enhance accountability. Several MLAs, including Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri and Iftikhar Ahmad, echoed the need for a clear policy framework and minimum qualifications for journalists to ensure professionalism. They stressed the importance of accountability and the dangers of misinformation, with MLA Nazir Ahmad Khan advocating for comprehensive legal provisions to regulate digital platforms. MLA Rafiq Ahmad Naik and others highlighted the need for strict legal measures to combat fake news, emphasizing responsible information dissemination. MLA Nizam-ud-din Bhat pointed out the ethical dimensions of the issue, calling for adherence to responsible practices in media. Dr. Rameshwar Singh and Dr. Sajjad Shafi supported the idea of regulatory oversight and minimum educational qualifications for journalists to enhance accountability. The assembly members collectively recognized the need for a law to regulate the media sector and curb misinformation, reflecting a shared commitment to responsible media practices. MLA Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah stressed the media’s role in holding the government accountable and suggested local oversight by District Development Commissioners to ensure responsibility. Sham Lal Sharma called for a proactive approach in implementing existing laws and proposed the formation of a House committee to strengthen media oversight. Overall, the discussions highlighted a unified call for regulatory measures, ethical standards, and accountability in the media landscape to combat the spread of misinformation effectively.
