Ban to 7-year jail: Fears of abuse over Karnataka Bill to curb fake news
In June 2025, the Karnataka government introduced the Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025, sparking nationwide debate. The bill targets online misinformation with tough penalties, including up to seven years in jail and ₹10 lakh fines. While the government claims the bill is essential, many fear it could suppress free speech and promote state censorship.
What the Bill Proposes
The bill aims to criminalize the creation, sharing, and promotion of fake news. It proposes:
- 2 to 5 years of imprisonment for spreading misinformation
- Up to 7 years in prison and a ₹10 lakh fine for “fake news”
Notably, the bill also holds social media platforms, news organizations, and employees legally accountable. A six-member government-appointed panel will have the authority to identify and label content as fake, anti-feminist, disrespectful of Sanatan symbols, or superstitious.
Government’s Justification
Karnataka’s IT Minister, Priyank Kharge, defended the bill. He stated it aims to curb the dangerous rise in online misinformation. According to him, fake news has created public confusion and even triggered violence. Therefore, the government believes strong legal action is necessary.
Minister Kharge also assured the public that this is just a draft. The government will hold consultations before presenting it in the Assembly.
Why Critics Are Concerned
Although the goal sounds reasonable, digital rights activists and legal experts have raised serious concerns:
1. Vague and Overbroad Definitions
The bill fails to define key terms clearly. For example, what exactly qualifies as “fake,” “anti-Sanatan,” or “superstitious”? Without clarity, authorities may interpret content based on personal or political preferences.
2. Threat to Free Speech
India’s Supreme Court had previously struck down Section 66A of the IT Act for similar reasons. That law led to arrests over harmless posts. This bill could bring back similar misuse, causing fear among journalists, activists, and common citizens.
3. State as the Judge of Truth
The bill gives excessive power to a government-appointed authority. This body decides what counts as fake news. However, it lacks independent oversight or representation from civil society. As a result, the law could easily become a tool for censorship.
4. Pressure on Platforms and Media
News platforms and tech companies may start removing user content pre-emptively to avoid penalties. This over-cautious approach may harm free discussion. Even legitimate voices could be silenced under pressure.
A National and Global Comparison
India already has measures to fight online disinformation. The IT Rules, 2021, require social platforms to appoint grievance officers and remove harmful content quickly. In addition, the Press Information Bureau flags fake news and requests takedowns.
However, Karnataka’s bill is far stricter. If passed, it could encourage other states to draft similar laws, many of which might also lean toward control rather than fairness.
Globally, countries have tried different approaches:
- Germany fines social platforms for failing to remove hate speech but requires judicial oversight.
- Singapore’s POFMA allows government ministers to demand content removal, drawing criticism for centralizing control.
- The EU promotes digital literacy and platform transparency rather than criminal penalties.
Clearly, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. But extreme measures often do more harm than good.
The Political Context Matters
This bill comes just ahead of general elections, making its timing significant. In recent years, multiple governments have attempted to manage online narratives. This bill may help the ruling party suppress opposing views during the election period.
Experts believe this is not just a law against misinformation—it may become a political tool. Those who question official narratives could become easy targets.
Better Alternatives Exist
Karnataka can fight fake news effectively without compromising democratic values. Here are a few steps the state could take:
- Redraft the bill using precise, unambiguous language
- Add judicial oversight and civil society representation in the fact-checking panel
- Protect journalists, whistleblowers, and content creators from wrongful prosecution
- Invest in digital literacy campaigns to educate people
- Encourage independent fact-checking bodies to verify viral content
These steps would build public trust without silencing valid opinions or critical voices.
Final Thoughts
The Karnataka Fake News Bill 2025 tries to address a real issue. Online misinformation is dangerous and needs strong countermeasures. However, laws that limit free speech or concentrate power in the hands of a few can become dangerous themselves.
If the government revises the bill with input from the public, it can become a model law. But if passed without changes, it may end up stifling expression, damaging journalism, and weakening democracy.
Let’s hope Karnataka chooses a path that upholds both truth and freedom.
