Bid to curb proliferation of fake news, rumours over coronavirus

A CORRESPONDENT

HAILAKANDI: In view of proliferation of fake news and rumours about the coronavirus pandemic, the District Information and Public Relations Office have asked the local channels circulating news on YouTube and other social media platforms to furnish particulars on their status, modus operandi, proper address along with authorisation letter from competent authorities.

District Information and Public Relations Officer said complaints have been received from various quarters that several so called channels without having any authorisation letter from appropriate authorities are spreading misinformation on the COVID-19 pandemic fuelling fear and panic among the people and also misinterpreting the government guidelines.

They have urged the DIPRO to initiate steps in right earnest to check the proliferation of fake news and rumours about the coronavirus pandemic being spread by these so called channels as well as address the queries and concerns in real time in view of the prevailing unprecedented situation by ensuring seamless coordination and dissemination of accurate information about COVID-19 to avoid panic.

Traditional news channels have also urged the DIPRO to curb the fake news circulated by so called channels before it 'grows and spreads like COVID-19'.

In view of rising complaints, the DIPRO has asked the local channels using social media platforms to submit the details regarding their operation and other relevant documents, including authorisation letter, if any, from competent authorities within seven days.

The DIPRO said in the event of failure to submit the relevant documents within the stipulated timeframe, appropriate action, as deemed fit and proper, would be initiated against them.