Bengaluru leads Karnataka in fake news cases, 247 registered in state since 2021

Bengaluru tops Karnataka in cases of fake news dissemination, with 99 individuals booked between 2021 and 2024, according to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s recent statement in the Legislative Council. Across the state, a total of 247 cases have been registered against those spreading misinformation on social media platforms, often disrupting societal harmony.

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To combat this growing menace, Social Media Monitoring Cells (SMMC) have been established at district and police station levels. These units actively track and analyze provocative messages, fake news, and hate speech circulating on social media and YouTube channels. Secret informants, beat officers, and even fake social media accounts are deployed to identify and act against offenders.

“Police officers are closely monitoring individuals spreading fake news, gathering evidence, and taking necessary legal action,” Siddaramaiah emphasized. Additionally, WhatsApp groups involving public and police personnel have been set up in every police station area to enhance vigilance.

While Bengaluru leads with 99 cases, other cities report fewer numbers, including Mysuru (2), Mangaluru (6), and Tumakuru district (9). Kodagu district ranks second statewide with 14 cases, followed by Shivamogga (10) and Uttar Kannada (45). Smaller numbers were reported across other districts, reflecting a widespread yet uneven distribution of incidents.

The state government continues its crackdown to curb misinformation, aiming to safeguard societal well-being.