2026 · GS Paper 3 · Q9 · 10 marks
Explain how fake news and disinformation pose threat to Internal Security and Public Order in Indian context? In this regard, discuss salient features of amendments in respect of Information Technology (Intermediatory Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021. (Answer in 150 words)
In short
Fake news and disinformation threaten public order by turning viral rumours into mob and communal violence and by serving as a tool of hybrid warfare. The amended IT Rules 2021 add Grievance Appellate Committees, senior-officer takedown orders, mandatory labelling of AI content and a three-hour takedown window.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 169 words
Rumour-driven violence
WhatsApp child-lifting rumours triggered over 20 lynchings in 2018, and a fake video inflamed the Muzaffarnagar riots of 2013.
Hybrid warfare
Hostile actors spread deepfakes after the 2025 Pahalgam attack to sow panic.
2022 and 2023 amendments
Platforms must make reasonable efforts against unlawful content and users gained Grievance Appellate Committees; the 2023 fact check unit fell in Kunal Kamra (Bombay HC, 2024).
2025 and 2026 amendments
Takedown orders need a Joint Secretary or DIG-rank officer, must be obeyed within three hours, and AI-generated content must be labelled.
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2026 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.