Karnataka Proposes Stringent Law Against Fake News, Misinformation on Social Media

BM TEAM

The Karnataka government is set to introduce a tough new law aimed at curbing the spread of fake news and misinformation online, making it one of the most rigorous legislative efforts in the country targeting digital disinformation.

According to a draft of the Karnataka Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025, reviewed by The Times of India, the state plans to establish a six-member regulatory authority for social media and designate special courts empowered to penalize offenders with up to seven years in prison, fines reaching Rs 10 lakh, or both.

The proposed legislation seeks to ban the dissemination of fake or misleading content on social platforms, prohibit posts that demean women, and restrict material that disrespects Sanatana Dharma, its associated symbols and beliefs. Content promoting superstition would also be barred.

Violations could result in severe legal consequences. Sharing unverified or deliberately misleading information may invite a jail term ranging from two to seven years and fines up to Rs 10 lakh. These offences will be classified as cognizable and non-bailable.

To oversee enforcement, the bill suggests forming a social media regulatory authority responsible for ensuring that online content—especially related to science, history, religion, literature, and philosophy—is grounded in authentic research.

Additionally, the government proposes the creation of special courts across Karnataka, with sessions judges presiding over one or more districts, subject to approval from the Karnataka High Court. These courts will have the authority to direct platforms, publishers, and content distributors to remove or correct misleading information.

Aggrieved parties will have 30 days to respond to notices issued under the law. Failure to comply with court orders may result in up to two years of simple imprisonment and a daily penalty of Rs 25,000, capped at Rs 25 lakh.

Company executives and employees may also be held liable if found complicit in offences committed by their organization. The bill recommends appointing special public prosecutors to manage cases related to fake news and misinformation.

Complementing the bill, further legal action can be pursued under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, India’s new criminal code framework, for individuals found guilty of spreading fake content.

The bill defines fake news as any manipulated or fabricated content—including altered statements or edited media—that distorts facts or context. Misinformation refers to knowingly or recklessly sharing false or partially incorrect factual claims. Notably, the bill exempts satire, parody, comedy, religious or philosophical discourse, and artistic expression from prosecution, provided such content is not reasonably interpreted as factual by an average person.