Vice-President Dhankhar Sounds the Alarm: Urges Press Council to Swiftly Tackle Spread of Deliberate Fake News.

New Delhi: Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the detrimental impact of fake news, misinformation, and various other factors on public trust in the media during a National Press Day event. Addressing the Press Council of India (PCI), he called for swift action against those intentionally spreading fake news and violating professional ethics. Dhankhar stressed the need for exemplary consequences to encourage ethical journalism. He criticized some journalists for attempting to manipulate the democratic process contrary to public sentiments.

Asserting that media should not be a power center in realpolitik, Dhankhar noted that certain journalists were striving to control and influence political dynamics. He highlighted the media’s duty to convey the truth and urged them to prioritize credibility and trustworthiness. Dhankhar acknowledged the growing issue of “fake news” and its impact on media audiences.

The event’s theme, ‘Media in the Era of Artificial Intelligence,’ prompted Dhankhar to discuss the challenges and ethical questions posed by technological advancements. He addressed concerns such as misinformation spread, deep fakes, creation of echo chambers, and micro-targeting of information. Dhankhar recognized both challenges and opportunities arising from artificial intelligence (AI). He warned of potential job threats due to AI anchors and language models.

While acknowledging the challenges, Dhankhar expanded on the responsibilities of journalists in the face of technological advancements. He emphasized the commitment to principles of truth, accuracy, and accountability, highlighting that no disruptive technology could replace a well-informed and conscientious journalist. Dhankhar encouraged the media to adapt, regulate, and deal with AI.

Dhankhar stressed the importance of maintaining a free and fair media environment, considering the Fourth Estate’s pivotal role in holding those in power accountable. He paid tribute to journalists who dedicated their lives to reporting the truth, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur expressed hope for the media to play a constructive role in highlighting India’s transformation story. He cautioned against biases and limitations associated with AI in news reporting. Thakur emphasized the need to challenge negative narratives and expose falsehoods.

Union Minister of State L. Murugan highlighted the importance of ethical human oversight in AI applications. Keynote speaker G-20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant emphasized the need for media entities to view technology as an enhancement to human talent, not a substitute. He warned against the potential harm of unchecked AI usage in creating societal echo chambers and limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.