Karnataka Draft Bill to Curb Fake News Proposes 7 Years Jail

THE KARNATAKA GOVERNMENT'S draft law aimed at prohibiting misinformation in the state proposes punishment with imprisonment which may extend up to seven years and fine up to Rs 10 lakhs or both, if any social media user is found guilty of posting fake news.

- Bengaluru, June 10

The draft of the Karnataka Misinformation and Fake News (Prohibition) Bill, 2025 is likely to be placed before the next cabinet meet.

Any individual outside or inside Karnataka who communicates misinformation to persons in the state, which is "prejudicial to public health, public safety, public tranquility or the conduct of free and fair elections" will face 2-5 years of imprisonment and will also be liable to fined. For abetting the spread of misinformation, two years of jail term has been proposed.

As per the draft Bill, the state government shall ensure a complete prohibition on fake news on social media platforms.

It provides for the government to constitute the "Fake News on Social Media Regulatory Authority" for carrying out the purpose of this proposed legislation.