SHILLONG: The state government has constituted a committee to check circulation of fake news as part of the preventive measures to contain spread of COVID-19 while warning of strong action against those induging in such acts.
The state chief secretary on Thursday informed that the committee has been constituted to take effective measures to check circulation of fake news.
It is headed by Barnari Mawlong, MCS, Director of Information and Public Relations and David Laitphlang, President, Shillong Press Club, and Geffry Wainhok Lyngdoh, Deputy Superintendent (ER) as members.
Meanwhile, the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner said that despite appeals, series of false and misleading information has continued to be circulated on social media and other platforms regarding COVID-19 which has created unwanted panic and worry among the public.
The deputy commissioner said that strong and befitting action as per law would be taken against those who spread false news thereby causing unnecessary panic among the public.
The DC requested the citizens to refrain from posting any unfounded information urging them to adhere to and comply with all the government advisories.
Earlier, the Union Home ministry had asked all the states and Union Territories to take effective measures against fake news in view of the coronavirus pandemic and the ongoing lockdown.
The MHA directive came as a follow up of the Supreme Court taking serious note of the panic caused by the spread of fake news leading to mass movement of migrant labourers, their plight and untold sufferings.
In a direction on April 1, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla informed that the Centre will soon create a web-portal for people to verify facts and unverified news promptly and the states were also asked to create a similar mechanism at their level to deal with local issues.
