SHILLONG, July 4: In view of the emergence of several supposed news outlets which use YouTube, Facebook, Instagram platforms to disseminate information among the netizens, the Shillong police has pointed out that information from these outlets is susceptible to hearsay and speculative reporting as they have no official source of verifying the news.
Calling it an unhealthy trend, the police said, “There have been numerous instances of improper publication/telecast of images, inaccurate or unsubstantial/unverified information which has caused confusion amongst the public. In fact, there have been instances when gory and graphic details of mishaps or crimes have been unabashedly telecasted/published by such outlets much to the dislike of the citizenry.”
The Shillong police, on Monday, summoned an individual who has been allegedly disseminating information in the form of news through YouTube without following due and proper procedure as per norms to function as a media outlet.
According to sources, the interview took place at Sadar police station.
The person was educated on the nuances of engaging oneself in the information disseminating field, especially with regards to proper procedure of getting officially acknowledged by relevant authorities, following certain protocols and procedures and maintaining a strict code of ethics, a statement issued here said.
Having understood the enormous responsibility that also comes along with upholding the freedom of speech and expression, the individual has concurred to undertake the proper route to achieve the purpose.
