ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Indian news channels have been facing severe backlash on social media over the fake news and fabricated claims of events.
Social media users have called these channels ‘fake’ and demanded an immediate ban on social media channels.
According to the online survey “Aaj Tak”, “Zee News”, “Republic TV”, “NDTV”, and “ABP News” are among the most criticized Indian news channels.
One social media user wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “All these channels should be banned, they are only spreading lies and hatred!”
On various occasions, these channels have aired such fabricated claims about Pakistan that have no basis. These include claims like a coup in Karachi, the arrest of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, the occupation of Islamabad, and the defeat of the Pakistani army.
Social media users say that many of the videos shown with these news items were related to Palestine, Sudan, or video games, but the public was misled by being told that they were about Pakistan.
Public reaction and social media campaign:
On social media, users are calling these channels “fake news factories” and “Godi media”. One user said, “These channels are not news, they sell fear and spread hatred among the public.”
Many users have demanded that these channels not only be fined or warned but also shut down to put an end to such misleading reporting.
Will the government take action?
The social media campaign has sparked a new debate on the balance between media freedom and responsibility in India. Some quarters are also calling for stricter regulations and monitoring rather than a complete ban.
