Fake news creates unrest, affects country’s economy: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru, Oct 21: Fake news creates unrest in society, affecting the country’s GDP and per capita income, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Saturday.
He asked police to take strict legal action against those spreading fake news.
Speaking at a Police Remembrance Day programme after paying tribute to martyrs at the Martyrs’ Park on Mysore Road, the chief minister spoke about the problems being created by fake news. He said it is creating unrest and spreading hatred widely.
“It is the responsibility of the government and the police system to see and treat all people equally,” Siddaramaiah said.
“False and hateful news is harmful to the country’s GDP.
The per capita income of the people is also affected as a result of unrest.
Therefore, strict legal action should be taken against websites that spread fake news and those who operate them,” Siddaramaiah said.
With the advancement of technology, the police department is facing new challenges, the chief minister underlined. Stating that cyber crimes are increasing along with improvements in cyber technology, he said it should be stopped effectively.
The CM emphasised upon the necessity to provide more safety and security to women, children and senior citizens. (PTI)