I&B Minister Warns Big Tech: Address Fake News or Risk Losing ‘Safe Harbour’ Protection

Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw issued a stern warning to Big Tech companies on National Press Day, urging them to take stronger measures against fake news and algorithmic biases. Speaking at a Press Council of India event in Delhi, the minister highlighted four critical challenges impacting the news media: misinformation, AI-generated content, algorithmic manipulation, and unfair compensation for traditional media. Vaishnaw called out digital platforms for failing to verify information, leading to the unchecked spread of fake news, which he described as a “threat to democracy.” He suggested revisiting the Safe Harbour clause under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000, which currently grants immunity to platforms like Meta and X for user-generated content. The minister argued that the provision, formulated in the 1990s, is outdated given the vast influence of today’s digital platforms. “In a country as diverse as India, misinformation and algorithmic bias pose significant societal risks. Platforms must take greater responsibility to align their operations with our sensitivities,” he said. On algorithmic bias, Vaishnaw criticised platforms for amplifying sensational content to boost engagement, often at the cost of social harmony. He advocated for ethical solutions that prioritize responsible dissemination of information. The minister also addressed the economic disparity between traditional and digital media, urging Big Tech to ensure fair compensation for conventional media outlets that create original content. Highlighting the risks of artificial intelligence, Vaishnaw raised ethical concerns over AI-generated content and its impact on creators’ rights and recognition. He called for open debates and collaborative efforts to address these pressing issues, emphasizing the need for accountability and fairness in digital media governance. The speech underscored the government’s growing focus on regulating Big Tech and safeguarding democratic values in the digital era. Source: Indiatvnews Photo Credit: Indiatvnews