Draft Media Policy 2026 Proposes Digital Regulation
Jammu, Feb 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Thursday informed the Legislative Assembly that the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) has issued 28 rebuttals to fake and misleading news reports between April 1, 2025 and January 31, 2026 as part of its ongoing efforts to curb misinformation.
Replying to a question raised by BJP MLA R.S. Pathania, the government stated that a dedicated Media Monitoring Cell has been established within DIPR to track fake and misleading news in real time.
Out of the 28 rebuttals issued during the period, 20 were released through official press statements, while eight were issued via DIPR’s official social media platforms, the House was informed.
The government clarified that regulation of websites, digital platforms, online news channels and Fact Checking Units (FCUs) does not fall within the jurisdiction of the Information Department. It also stated that the department does not impose fines on organizations, corporate entities, or individuals for spreading fake news.
In response to another query, the government said that no private Fact Checking Units (FCUs) are currently recognized or authorized by the Information Department, and the department does not verify or grade private FCUs.
The Assembly was further informed that a Draft New Media Policy-2026 proposes provisions for regulating new and social media alongside print media. The draft policy is presently under inter-departmental consultation for finalization.
On cybersecurity, the government said comprehensive measures have been taken in coordination with the IT Department to strengthen digital infrastructure across departments. These include:
• Mandatory security audits of websites hosted on the State Data Centre and NIC Mini Data Centre
• Decommissioning or DNS de-mapping of redundant websites
• Monthly cyber security review meetings chaired by the Chief Secretary
• Establishment of an Information Security Steering Committee
• Nomination of Internal Security Officers in departments
• Preparation of Cyber Crisis Management Plans across government institutions
The government said these steps aim to institutionalize cyber security governance and enhance protection against digital threats across Jammu and Kashmir.
