News for 'Social Media and Misinformation'

Survey Flags Social Media Misinformation About Periods

Survey Flags Social Media Misinformation About Periods

Rediff.com13 Jun 2025

The survey states that while around 71.6 per cent of women believe that social media offers adequate information about menstruation, only 11.5 per cent rely on it as their primary source during menstrual emergencies.

Govt forms quick response teams to combat fake news on social media

Govt forms quick response teams to combat fake news on social media

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Government departments are establishing Quick Response Teams (QRTs) to promptly address and counter misleading or fake content circulating on social media. These teams will monitor digital platforms, verify information, and coordinate with fact-checking units to ensure timely and accurate responses to misinformation, with some ministries already having formed their QRTs.

July 20 clashes: Delhi police examines call records, social media posts

July 20 clashes: Delhi police examines call records, social media posts

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Delhi Police is conducting an extensive investigation into the July 20 clashes, utilising thousands of videos, social media broadcasts, and mobile phone records to identify culprits and determine if the violence was pre-planned. The probe also focuses on identifying over 480 Pakistan-based social media handles allegedly spreading misinformation to instigate students during the protests.

Delhi Police Cracks Down on Social Media Rumours in Uttam Nagar Murder Case

Delhi Police Cracks Down on Social Media Rumours in Uttam Nagar Murder Case

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Delhi Police has initiated legal action against social media accounts spreading rumours and misleading content related to the Uttam Nagar murder case, including a viral video seeking financial donations. Authorities have frozen a suspect bank account containing nearly Rs 37 lakh and are working with social media platforms to remove inflammatory content.

FIR against 9 social media accounts over Lathmar Holi posts

FIR against 9 social media accounts over Lathmar Holi posts

Rediff.com1 Mar 2026

Police in Mathura have filed a case against nine social media accounts for allegedly posting old videos to malign the reputation of the Lathmar Holi festival.

UP ATS arrests cleric in Deoband over social media posts and Pakistan links

UP ATS arrests cleric in Deoband over social media posts and Pakistan links

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested a Muslim cleric from Deoband for allegedly sharing inflammatory content on social media and maintaining contacts with individuals in Pakistan.

Manipur DGP Issues Stern Warning On Weapons, Misinformation

Manipur DGP Issues Stern Warning On Weapons, Misinformation

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Manipur's police chief, Mukesh Singh, has issued a stern warning against individuals taking the law into their own hands or firing at security forces, stating they will be dealt with strictly. He also highlighted efforts to recover looted weapons and combat social media misinformation.

J&K Police Arrest Three for Spreading Misinformation Online

J&K Police Arrest Three for Spreading Misinformation Online

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Police in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir have arrested three individuals for allegedly spreading misinformation and rumours on social media platforms with the intention of disrupting public peace and order.

PTI Chief On Media's Role: Scepticism Over Cynicism

PTI Chief On Media's Role: Scepticism Over Cynicism

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

PTI Editor-in-Chief Vijay Joshi emphasised that democracy thrives on citizens who question everything, not those who blindly believe or disbelieve. Speaking at 'Media Conclave 2026', he highlighted the challenges posed by social media, the focus on speed over verification, and AI-generated fake content, stressing the importance of media credibility for informed decision-making.

Court Grants Bail To Bangla Pokkho Founder In Misinformation Case

Court Grants Bail To Bangla Pokkho Founder In Misinformation Case

Rediff.com22 May 2026

A court in Kolkata granted bail to Bangla Pokkho's founder, Garga Chatterjee, who was arrested for allegedly spreading misinformation through social media posts during the West Bengal Assembly elections.

World leaders ill after attending BRICS Summit? MEA says...

World leaders ill after attending BRICS Summit? MEA says...

Rediff.com3 hours ago

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a warning against 'malicious' and 'misleading' social media posts concerning the health of world leaders, specifically Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who attended the recent BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The warning comes amidst unverified claims about Xi's health and an official statement from Ramaphosa's office confirming his withdrawal from public engagements due to ill health.

Delhi police flag over 480 Pak handles spreading fake posts amid CJP stir

Delhi police flag over 480 Pak handles spreading fake posts amid CJP stir

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Delhi police on Thursday claimed it has identified more than 480 Pakistan-based social media handles allegedly involved in spreading misinformation amid the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Martar, saying the same accounts had been active during Operation Sindoor.

Bomb threats: Govt asks social media platforms to act

Bomb threats: Govt asks social media platforms to act

Rediff.com26 Oct 2024

Amid a spate of hoax bomb threats to multiple airlines, the IT ministry has asked social media platforms to observe due diligence obligations and promptly remove or disable access to misinformation within the strict timelines prescribed under IT rules.

Delhi Police dismisses reports of protester's death

Delhi Police dismisses reports of protester's death

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Delhi Police has refuted social media claims of a protester's death during a lathi charge at a CJP protest, calling them "false propaganda." Authorities warned of strict legal action against those spreading misinformation and urged the public to rely on verified facts to maintain peace.

Govt debunks fake AI videos Union min, blames Pak handles

Govt debunks fake AI videos Union min, blames Pak handles

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Union Minister Piyush Goyal has filed a police complaint after an AI-generated deepfake video, maliciously altering his remarks, surfaced on social media. The video falsely depicted him making threatening statements against students protesting the NEET examination. Government sources confirm many related links have been taken down, and Goyal has warned of strict legal action against those involved in its creation and dissemination.

Shooting at US restaurant leaves multiple dead, gunman killed

Shooting at US restaurant leaves multiple dead, gunman killed

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

A shooting at a newly opened fast-food outlet in Twin Falls, Idaho, resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. The gunman is confirmed deceased, and authorities are investigating the motive and identity of the suspect. The incident highlights the ongoing issue of public shootings in the United States.

Rajendra Pal Gautam Booked For Spreading Misinformation

Rajendra Pal Gautam Booked For Spreading Misinformation

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Police in Hathras have registered an FIR against former Delhi minister Rajendra Pal Gautam for allegedly spreading misleading information and attempting to disturb communal harmony.

Govt Orders Quick Response Teams Against Fake Posts

Govt Orders Quick Response Teams Against Fake Posts

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

The move comes days after the Delhi police said false information linked to the recent students' protest was being circulated through fake social media posts.

Bengaluru Man Arrested Over 'Zombie Drug' Video Misinformation

Bengaluru Man Arrested Over 'Zombie Drug' Video Misinformation

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

A man in Bengaluru was arrested for uploading a misleading video claiming a person was under the influence of a 'zombie drug,' leading to public panic and misinformation.

Rashmika's deepfake: Govt issues advisory to social media cos

Rashmika's deepfake: Govt issues advisory to social media cos

Rediff.com7 Nov 2023

A deep fake video of actress Rashmika Mandanna has been circulating on social media platforms. Netizens claimed the video has been morphed and the actual video is of an Indian-origin person living in the United Kingdom.

Jamia forms fact-finding panel amid chameleon discovery in hostel food

Jamia forms fact-finding panel amid chameleon discovery in hostel food

Rediff.com3 days ago

Jamia Millia Islamia has established a four-member fact-finding committee to investigate CCTV footage allegedly showing a chameleon in a student's meal at a hostel mess. This comes amidst ongoing student protests regarding food quality and hygiene. The university is also seeking external agency assistance and will take action if deliberate wrongdoing or misinformation is found, while also installing more CCTV cameras to enhance monitoring.

HC orders removal of false info on judges' London badminton trip

HC orders removal of false info on judges' London badminton trip

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Delhi high court has ordered social media companies and online service providers to remove 'false' information circulating online about Indian judges and Union ministers allegedly participating in a badminton tournament in London at taxpayers' expense. The court deemed the content malicious and a systematic misinformation campaign aimed at undermining the judiciary and executive.

'India's Misinformation Problem Is Deeply Social'

'India's Misinformation Problem Is Deeply Social'

Rediff.com22 Oct 2025

'It flows through families, caste groups, and local WhatsApp communities where trust is personal.' 'Children are taught to defer to elders, so if a parent or uncle forwards something, you don't question it.'

Nepal flood toll reaches 939; over 10,000 rescued so far

Nepal flood toll reaches 939; over 10,000 rescued so far

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

The death toll from devastating flash floods in Nepal has tragically risen to 903, with 4,247 people still reported missing, including security personnel and foreigners. India has dispatched an 18-member team of forensic experts to assist with DNA analysis and identification of victims.

Govt warns social media platforms over deepfake issue

Govt warns social media platforms over deepfake issue

Rediff.com18 Nov 2023

Vaishnaw told reporters that the government had recently issued a notice to companies on the deepfake issue, and the platforms responded, but added that the firms will have to be more aggressive in taking action on such content.

Psephologist Sanjay Kumar booked for social media posts on Maha polls

Psephologist Sanjay Kumar booked for social media posts on Maha polls

Rediff.com20 Aug 2025

On Tuesday, Kumar issued a public apology on X, acknowledging the error in his original post.

'No life-threatening injury': Police reject CJP claim over Bankura death

'No life-threatening injury': Police reject CJP claim over Bankura death

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The West Bengal police rejected claims that a Bankura man died following a "brutal physical assault" on the father of a CJP activist, saying he had sustained only a minor injury during an alleged attack at his residence and later died after being admitted to hospital following severe blood pressure fluctuations.

Navi Mumbai aganwadi video: Police probe reveals mother assaulted child

Navi Mumbai aganwadi video: Police probe reveals mother assaulted child

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

A viral video showing a toddler being assaulted at a Navi Mumbai anganwadi initially sparked outrage against staff, but a police probe revealed the child's own mother was the perpetrator. The mother lost her temper due to the child's restlessness. Authorities counselled the parents and a minister addressed the spread of misinformation.

Marathi fine rumours trigger protests by Mumbai auto, taxi drivers

Marathi fine rumours trigger protests by Mumbai auto, taxi drivers

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Widespread fear amongst autorickshaw and taxi drivers over rumoured steep fines linked to a state government Marathi proficiency drive erupted into street protests in parts of Mumbai on Monday, forcing Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to step in and address the panic. During protests, some drivers tried to prevent other members from transporting passengers, inconveniencing common people in the morning hours.

Govt leans on social media giants to remove Covid misinformation

Govt leans on social media giants to remove Covid misinformation

Rediff.com25 Apr 2021

The government has asked social media platforms, including Twitter and Facebook, to remove content and posts that were spreading misinformation and public panic around the pandemic, according to sources.

Violence erupts in Pune's Yavat over social media post; youth detained

Violence erupts in Pune's Yavat over social media post; youth detained

Rediff.com2 Aug 2025

An irate mob vandalized properties and indulged in arson in Yavat, Pune, following an objectionable social media post. Police used teargas to control the situation, and peace has been restored with heavy police presence.

Mob violence erupts in Pune over social media post; police deployed

Mob violence erupts in Pune over social media post; police deployed

Rediff.com2 Aug 2025

A mob in Pune vandalized properties and set fire to objects after an objectionable social media post. Police have detained the youth responsible for the post and are working to restore peace.

Madhu Kishwar denied anticipatory bail over video clip

Madhu Kishwar denied anticipatory bail over video clip

Rediff.com30 May 2026

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of academician Madhu Purnima Kishwar in a case registered against her for allegedly retweeting a video clip on social media.

'I get paid millions': Kangana slams trolls sharing her film clips

'I get paid millions': Kangana slams trolls sharing her film clips

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has criticised online users for employing clips from her films against her, arguing that such actions mislead young people. This comes after her controversial remarks labelling Gen Z protestors as "generation gutter" and their videos as "puke-inducing," which sparked widespread criticism and led to users sharing her film clips in response. Ranaut defended her stance, stating that movie roles and real-life protests are not comparable.

Sikkim Police Investigate Fake Amit Shah Merger Document

Sikkim Police Investigate Fake Amit Shah Merger Document

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Sikkim home department has filed an FIR to investigate the creation and circulation of a forged document falsely attributed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, which claimed a merger of Sikkim and Darjeeling.

'Peace has never been this close': Pak PM Shehbaz on US-Iran deal

'Peace has never been this close': Pak PM Shehbaz on US-Iran deal

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said that the US and Iran have agreed on the text of a peace deal, kindling hope of a diplomatic breakthrough in the region.

More Arrests Made in Delhi Holi Clash Case; Police Warn Against Misinformation

More Arrests Made in Delhi Holi Clash Case; Police Warn Against Misinformation

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

Delhi Police have arrested seven more people and apprehended a minor in connection with the death of a 26-year-old man during a clash between two families in Uttam Nagar on Holi. The police are also warning against the spread of AI-generated misinformation about the incident.

Social media has become 'weapon of mass distraction': HC judge

Social media has become 'weapon of mass distraction': HC judge

Rediff.com30 Sep 2023

Social media or mass media have become weapons of mass distraction, but there are no concerted efforts yet to tackle them, Justice Mahesh Sonak of the Goa bench of the Bombay high court said on Saturday.

'Hindutva influencer' boasts of 'cracking skull' during CJP protest

'Hindutva influencer' boasts of 'cracking skull' during CJP protest

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

A self-styled Hindutva influencer, Swatantra Bhardwaj, accused of attacking a student agitator's father, purportedly claimed a phone call from Delhi minister Kapil Mishra helped him avoid jail. This sparked strong reactions from opposition parties, including Rahul Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal, who questioned the BJP's protection of such individuals. Delhi Police, however, clarified that the injuries were simple and legal action was taken, denying any undue influence.

Can A Couple With Different Political Views Have A Healthy Relationship?

Can A Couple With Different Political Views Have A Healthy Relationship?

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

With political divisions dominating conversations, can couples with opposing views stay together?