Archive · 2 Jul 2025
Karnataka Bill Targets Fake News with Jail Time and Fines
The Karnataka government is making a new rule to stop fake news online.
This new rule is called the 'Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025'.
If people share fake information, they could go to jail for up to seven years and pay a fine.
This also includes social media companies.
A group will be created to watch what's posted online and make sure it's not fake.
The government wants to stop fake news and punish people who spread it.
Karnataka government introduced the 'Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025'.
The bill aims to criminalize those spreading fake news and misinformation on social media.
Individuals may face imprisonment from two to seven years, along with fines.
Social media platforms and companies may be held accountable.
A six-member fake news regulatory authority is proposed.
- Who
- The Karnataka state government.
- What
- The Karnataka government introduced the 'Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025'.
- When
- The draft proposal was placed before the cabinet in mid-June.
- Where
- Karnataka, India.
- Why
- To curb the spread of fake news and misinformation on social media.
Concerns
Support
Freedom of Expression vs. Public Safety
Concerns
The bill may infringe on free speech and expression.
Support
The bill aims to protect the public from misinformation, emphasizing public safety and order.
- Bill Name
- Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025
- Government
- Karnataka
- Penalties (Individuals)
- Imprisonment (2-7 years) and up to ₹10 lakh fine
- Targets
- Individuals, companies, and social media platforms
- Regulatory Body
- Six-member fake news regulatory authority