NEW DELHI, Dec 3: Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday cautioned that fake news and AI-generated deepfake content pose a serious and escalating threat to India’s democratic processes. Addressing the Lok Sabha during Question Hour, he confirmed that the government is finalising new rules aimed at curbing misinformation and strengthening mechanisms to detect and act against deepfakes.
“Fake news is a very serious issue. Fake news is a threat to democracy. There is a need to take strict action against fake news and AI-generated deep fake videos,” Vaishnaw told the House, adding that many individuals and organised networks spreading false information operate outside the purview of Indian law.
He stressed that India requires a robust regulatory framework that maintains a “fine delicate balance between fake news and freedom of speech,” and appreciated recommendations made by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and IT, chaired by Nishikant Dubey.
Responding to a separate question on online betting and money-gaming platforms, Vaishnaw said the government has already established stringent legal provisions to crack down on digital misconduct. “The Modi government never shies away from taking strong action against such activities,” he asserted.
On complaints related to television channels disseminating misinformation, the minister said both the government and the Press Council of India regularly examine such cases and take necessary action.
The day also marked a rare disruption-free Question Hour in the Lok Sabha during the ongoing Winter Session. Members paid tributes to former MPs before discussions commenced. The smooth proceedings followed a meeting chaired by Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday, where it was agreed that the House would hold discussions next week on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram and on electoral reforms.
