INDIA | Visheshbaat.Com News | Updated April 3, 2018 3:17 PM IST

It is learnt that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed the Information and Broadcasting Ministry to withdraw the order related to the cancellation of accreditation of journalists who create or propagate fake news. Notably, a directive was passed on April 2 by I&B Ministry in which a provision of cancellation of accreditation of journalists engaging in producing fake news was made. As per the directive, the first time the accreditation would be suspended for 6 months and then for 2 years at the second instance and permanently if it is repeated.

Here is the release which was issued by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting

Guidelines for accreditation of Journalists amended to regulate Fake News

Soon after the directive, there was outrage among the media personnel and there was huge outcry and the directive was termed an order to put control on the media using the backdoor. It is also learnt that there were many severe reactions on the I&B directive.

Based on the PM’s order, the PIB Press release titled “Guidelines for accreditation of Journalists amended to regulate Fake News” stands withdrawn.

Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani)
PIB Accreditation Guidelines asking Press Council of India & News Broadcasters Association to define & act against ‘fake news’ have generated debate. Several journalists & organisations have reached out giving positive suggestions regarding the same. 1/2
3 hours ago · Twitter

Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani)
.@MIB_India is more than happy to engage with journalist body or organisation/s wanting to give suggestions so that together we can fight the menace of ‘fake news’ & uphold ethical journalism. Interested journalists and/or organisations may feel free to meet me at @MIB_India. 2/2
3 hours ago · Twitter