Event Summary
In July 2025, the Government of Karnataka released a draft of the Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, proposing criminal penalties for spreading misinformation, including jail terms and heavy fines. The bill defines misinformation broadly—covering edited videos, fabricated texts, and even content labeled “anti-feminist,” “obese,” or disrespectful to “Sanatan symbols.” A new state body would be empowered to identify such content, issue takedowns, and enforce penalties.
Critics, including civil society, legal experts, and media groups, have raised strong concerns. They argue that the Bill’s vague language, harsh penalties, and lack of independent oversight create risks of misuse, particularly in politically sensitive contexts. Bail provisions are stricter than usual, and the proposed enforcement authority lacks external accountability, raising fears of selective or politically motivated enforcement.
This draft follows a wider national trend of tightening state control over online speech in India. While the central government has already introduced IT rules and a federal fact-checking system, states like Karnataka are now developing their own frameworks—leading to fears of conflicting laws and increased censorship.
The bill emerged shortly after a spike in disinformation during the India-Pakistan tensions in April–May 2025, which heightened political momentum for regulation. However, legal experts argue that such laws may contradict established constitutional protections, citing cases like Shreya Singhal.
The Bill sparked public backlash when leaked in June 2025, in response to which, the Karnataka government has said it will revise the language and consult stakeholders. Still, observers worry that the Bill is part of a broader, institutional trend toward curbing digital freedom under the guise of public safety—potentially chilling journalism and free expression across the country.