A.P. CM orders formation of Special Task Force to check social media abuse
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered the formation of a Special Task Force to combat social media abuse and fake news. The government aims to curb defamatory campaigns targeting political leaders while maintaining freedom of expression.
Why it matters
It reflects the growing challenge of regulating digital political discourse and misinformation in the Indian democratic landscape.
The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet on Friday held an extensive discussion on the growing misuse of social media, with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directing the Police Department to launch a concerted crackdown on defamatory campaigns, fake news and objectionable online content targeting political leaders and the government.
Chairing the Cabinet meeting, Mr. Naidu instructed the senior police officials to immediately constitute a dedicated task force to monitor and take action against those involved in character assassination and the spread of false information on social media platforms.
The issue assumed political significance as Ministers expressed serious concern over videos and posts allegedly aimed at maligning public representatives and the coalition government. While reiterating that freedom of expression must be respected, the Cabinet made it clear that abusive, defamatory and unlawful content would not be tolerated.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in