AP Plans Law Against Fake News on Social Media

Vijayawada: Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha said on Tuesday that the state government would introduce a law in the coming assembly session to curb fake news and misinformation on social media.

She said stringent action would be taken against those spreading false information that misleads people and creates insecurity.

Addressing the media in Amaravati, Anitha said the alliance government’s welfare and development initiatives under the Super Six guarantees have rattled the opposition. “Hence, its resort to false campaigns.” She accused the YSRC and its affiliated media of spreading misinformation that Amaravati was submerged or that the gates of the Prakasam barrage were not functioning.

“Such baseless campaigns damage Andhra Pradesh’s brand image. To counter this, the government would set up a fact-finding committee to present verified information to the public,” she said.

The minister said chief minister Chandrababu Naidu has directed her to take strict action against those posting false and defamatory content online. “Those who spread fake posts will face sedition charges. Law and order will not be compromised” she warned.

Highlighting the success of welfare programmes, the home minister said these have benefited lakhs of people. Over 20 lakh women travelled free in RTC buses within the last four days, she said.

On the issue of convict Srikanth, she said his parole was cancelled and he was sent back to prison. “A full investigation is under way into how parole was granted and who was behind it. Strict action would be taken against all those involved, including escort staff and officials,” she stated.