Karnataka Congress Government to enact law to curb fake news

Provision for up to seven years of imprisonment

Bengaluru (Karnataka) – The Congress Government in Karnataka is introducing a law to curb fake news. The Congress Government recently tabled a Bill in the State Assembly. It proposes up to 7 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹10 lakh for spreading fake news.

Fake news puts Indian democracy in danger

🛑 Karnataka Congress Government to Introduce Law to Curb Fake News

📌 Provision for imprisonment up to 7 years

"Fake news endangers India's democracy!"
– Priyank Kharge, Minister, Karnataka

👉 It goes without saying that the Congress government will use this law against… pic.twitter.com/qsJWOnYhYG

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) June 22, 2025

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge said that India ranks first in spreading misinformation. This is the root cause of the country’s current law and order issues. He added that military chiefs recently stated that 50 percent of their time is spent countering misinformation and offering clarifications.

He noted that the Election Commissioner has said that money, muscle, and misinformation are threats to democracy. Prime Minister Modi has also said that misinformation is dangerous for democracy. Even former Chief Justices of India have warned that fake news threatens India’s democratic framework.

What does the Bill contain

The Bill states that any individual attempting to spread fake or misleading information will face legal action. If anyone spreads false or distorted reporting via social media or manipulates and presents audio or video content, they will be prosecuted.

The Bill defines fake news as ‘deliberately presenting any information in a misleading way to damage someone’s reputation.’