Karnataka Drafts Strict Fake News Bill

The bill empowers a six-member regulatory authority to block or ban false or harmful content, especially that which threatens public health, safety, elections, or spreads anti-feminist views. 

 

 

 

In a bold move to combat online misinformation, the Karnataka government has drafted the Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025, a proposed legislation targeting the spread of fake news, online abuse, and harmful digital content. The bill outlines strict penalties, including up to 7 years of imprisonment, fines of up to ₹10 lakh, and provisions to prosecute those who assist in the creation or distribution of misleading or offensive content.

The bill has been introduced amid rising concerns over the impact of digital misinformation, especially content that threatens public health, electoral integrity, and social harmony. It also seeks to prohibit anti-feminist content, obscene material, and hate speech that circulates on social media platforms, news portals, and messaging apps.

A key feature of the bill is the creation of a six-member body—the Fake News on Social Media Regulatory Authority—which will be empowered to monitor, restrict, block, or ban content deemed false or dangerous. To ensure fast-track legal proceedings, the bill also proposes setting up special courts dedicated to handling such cases.

If passed, the bill could set a precedent for other Indian states to introduce similar measures, igniting a national debate on free speech, digital censorship, and responsible online communication.