Crackdown on YouTube channels spreading false news: Government takes action

In a move to curb the dissemination of fake news, the Indian government has taken action against eight YouTube channels that collectively boast nearly 23 million subscribers. These channels were found to be propagating false information, including misleading claims about early Lok Sabha polls and the banning of electronic voting machines (EVMs). The crackdown highlights the government's commitment to ensuring accurate and reliable information for the public.

Busting Fake News on YouTube

The government's efforts to combat fake news on digital platforms have led to the identification of eight YouTube channels that were engaged in spreading misinformation. These channels, with their considerable subscriber base, have been singled out for their role in perpetuating false narratives. The channels include 'Yahan Sach Dekho', 'Capital TV', 'KPS News', 'Sarkari Vlog', 'Earn Tech India', 'SPN9 News', 'Educational Dost', and 'World Best News'.

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Misrepresentation and False Claims

One of the identified channels, 'World Best News', with a staggering subscriber count of over 1.7 million and more than 18 crore views, was found to be misrepresenting the Indian Army. Similarly, 'Educational Dost', which boasts over 3.43 million subscribers and 23 crore views, was spreading inaccurate details about government schemes. 'SPN9 News', with its massive subscriber count of over 4.8 million and 189 crore views, was found guilty of propagating fake news concerning the president, prime minister, and several central ministers.

Misleading News About Government Initiatives

Several of these channels were found to be intentionally spreading misleading information about government initiatives. 'Sarkari Vlog', for instance, with its significant subscriber base of over 4.5 million and 9.4 crore views, was guilty of peddling fake news about government schemes. Similarly, the channel 'KPS News', catering to over one million subscribers and over 13 crore views, was involved in the dissemination of false information regarding government schemes, decisions, and orders. This included claims such as the availability of cooking gas cylinders at an implausibly low price of Rs 20 and petrol at Rs 15 per litre.

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Fabricated News and Allegations

Among the identified channels, 'Capital TV' with its extensive subscriber base of over 3.5 million and more than 160 crore views, was responsible for fabricating news about the prime minister, government actions, and orders linked to the imposition of President's rule in West Bengal. 'Yahan Sach Dekho', which commanded a considerable viewership of over 3 million subscribers and 100 million views, was found guilty of spreading fabricated news concerning the Election Commission and the Chief Justice of India.