Jammu, Mar 27: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary highlighted the vital role of media as the fourth pillar of democracy while addressing a Short Duration Discussion in the Legislative Assembly on tackling fake news and misinformation in Jammu and Kashmir.

He noted that while social media has expanded access to information, it has also brought challenges, and called on media professionals to uphold credibility and ethical standards. “A strong J&K will lead to a strong India. Media must act responsibly, as no law can replace self-discipline,” he said.
Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, emphasized encouraging responsible media practitioners and punishing those spreading misinformation. Legislators across party lines agreed on the need for stronger measures while safeguarding freedom of speech.
MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania proposed a robust regulatory framework, including a 36-hour takedown mechanism, district-level definitions of fake news, and a UT-level Fact Check Unit. Other MLAs, including Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri, Iftikhar Ahmad, Sajjad Shaheen, Khurshied Ahmed, and Pawan Gupta, stressed minimum qualification standards, regulatory oversight, and accountability to curb unverified and misleading content.
Several legislators highlighted the rise of unlicensed digital platforms, the need for grievance redressal mechanisms, and the adoption of global best practices in combating misinformation. A consensus emerged on enacting a law to regulate media, ensure responsible journalism, and maintain ethical standards, while distinguishing it from genuine reporting.
The discussion also proposed empowering District Development Commissioners to monitor media activities locally and recommended forming a House committee, in coordination with accredited media representatives, to strengthen oversight and enforce accountability.