Disinformation and Fake News Pose a Grave Threat to Social Harmony, Says Home Minister Amit Shah
New Delhi – Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a stark warning on Monday, highlighting the potent threat of disinformation, misinformation, and fake news in disrupting societal harmony. Speaking at the 37th Intelligence Bureau Centenary Endowment Lecture, Shah underscored the insidious nature of these fabricated narratives, amplified by the pervasive reach of modern technology. He stressed the urgent need to counter these threats, emphasizing the role of intelligence agencies as “information warriors” in safeguarding national security and social cohesion.
Shah’s address painted a concerning picture of the challenges facing India, including the persistent presence of divisive forces that actively seek to undermine national unity. He argued that progress and development are inextricably linked to social harmony, and that these divisive elements pose a significant obstacle to achieving national goals. The Home Minister called upon intelligence agencies to proactively address these challenges, emphasizing the importance of swift and decisive action in identifying and neutralizing threats.
The Home Minister’s remarks highlighted the critical role of the intelligence ecosystem in preserving trust and stability within society. Shah pointed to a range of threats confronting the nation, including Naxalism, terrorism, organized crime, communalism, narcotics trafficking, and anti-social elements. He asserted that ensuring the security of society is paramount to effectively countering these threats, stressing the need for a robust and proactive security apparatus. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy, incorporating advanced technologies and heightened preparedness, to combat the spread of misinformation and propaganda.
Looking towards the future, Shah urged the Intelligence Bureau (IB) to embrace cutting-edge technologies and strategies to effectively address the evolving security landscape. He emphasized the importance of building a robust infrastructure, spanning from national headquarters to local police stations, to counter emerging threats. The Home Minister expressed confidence in India’s economic trajectory, predicting that the nation will become the world’s third-largest economy by 2027 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. He cautioned, however, that with progress comes increased competition and the emergence of new threats, necessitating a proactive and forward-thinking approach to security.
Shah’s address also touched upon the importance of long-term planning and preparedness. He called for a comprehensive roadmap to safeguard the nation against potential threats, envisioning a fully developed India by 2047. This roadmap, he argued, must encompass a wide range of security concerns, from traditional threats like terrorism and organized crime to the more nuanced challenges posed by disinformation and social unrest. He also stressed the need to incorporate principles of inclusive development in national security planning, maintaining that peace and stability are essential for achieving equitable and sustainable growth.
The Home Minister concluded his remarks by highlighting the significant strides made in combating terrorism, Naxalism, insurgency, narcotics trafficking, and other security threats under the Modi government’s decade-long tenure. He credited these achievements to enhanced coordination between state and national agencies, strengthened by legislative reforms and amendments. Shah also pointed to the introduction of three new criminal laws, crafted through extensive consultation with stakeholders, as a significant step towards modernizing India’s criminal justice system. He expressed confidence that these legislative reforms will streamline the judicial process, ensuring swifter delivery of justice.