The Newz Radar
Dharamshala: Hemraj Bairwa announced the formation of the district-level media certification and monitoring committee (MCMC) to oversee the verification of election advertisements and monitor fake news in the context of the Lok Sabha elections 2024.
In a meeting chaired by Bairwa on Monday, it was emphasized that prior approval from the MCMC would be mandatory for any political party or candidate to publish advertisements in newspapers, broadcast on communication mediums, or on the internet.
The office of the district public relations officer in Dharamshala has been designated as the headquarters for the MCMC, and following the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct, the committee has commenced its operations.
Bairwa highlighted that the committee would scrutinize advertisements and fake news in accordance with prescribed rules, ensuring adherence to ethical standards.
He emphasized that advertisements undermining social harmony, increasing tension, violating morality, decency, or hurting religious sentiments would not be certified. Any political party or candidate intending to release proposed advertisements must submit their application to the relevant certification committee at least three days before the scheduled date for digital and print media.
After the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, advertisements and fake news published through print media units, electronic media units, social media units, FM, local radio units, electronic media, observation units, and media centers will be under scrutiny, with appropriate action taken for violations of the Model Code of Conduct.
Additional District Magistrate Saurabh Jassal and tehsildar election Sanjay Rathore were present at the event as members of the committee.
