Karnataka to launch anti-disinformation unit to fight fake news and hate speech

The Karnataka government will set up an information breach unit jointly led by the home ministry and the IT-BT department to enable faster coordination with social media platforms and ensure swift action against malicious online content, IT-BT and e-Governance, Home Minister Priyank Kharge said.

As part of the initiative, the government will identify dedicated points of contact between the new unit and major social media platforms and create a rapid response communication mechanism to facilitate swift action against misinformation, fake news and hate speech.

Mr Kharge said the move follows a recent consultation with representatives of the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and leading digital and social media platforms.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the government and technology companies to identify and quickly respond to online content that could threaten public safety, law and order and social harmony.

He said the proposed framework is aimed at combating misinformation, fake news and hate speech that directly impact governance, public safety and law and order. He added that the government is committed to building a safe, transparent and accountable digital ecosystem through sustained engagement with digital platforms and other stakeholders.

Published – 17 Jul 2026 0:38 IST