Syllabus: GS-II Subject: Polity, Topic: Institutions, Issue: Fact checking unit .
Context: The Supreme Court stayed the “Fact Check Unit” for identifying “fake news.”
FCU Functions:
- It is tasked with flagging false information related to the Central government on social media.
- Social media platforms are mandated to take down flagged content or face litigation.
Concerns:
- Excessive power to control online information and potentially stifling free speech.
- Its establishment raised concerns about press freedom and government impartiality.
- Could be used to suppress criticism of the government.
