Consider the following statements regarding Ethical implications of clickbait journalism:
1. The Information Technology Rules of 2021 provide for the regulation of digital news portals and include provisions that categorize clickbait as a criminal offense punishable by a fine of up to 50 lakh rupees.
2. The News Broadcasters Association code of ethics, revised in 2015, allows for the use of sensationalist headlines provided that the editorial content remains balanced and the publisher discloses the source of the click-through data.
3. The Advertising Standards Council of India, founded in 1985, oversees the digital media landscape and includes provisions that equate clickbait headlines with deceptive advertising practices under its self-regulatory framework.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the IT Rules, 2021 focus on grievance redressal and a code of ethics for digital media, but do not classify clickbait as a specific criminal offense with a 50 lakh rupee fine. Statement 2 is incorrect as the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) Code of Ethics prohibits sensationalism and does not mandate the disclosure of click-through data as a justification for headlines. Statement 3 is incorrect because while ASCI regulates advertisements, it does not have the mandate to oversee editorial content or news headlines, as its jurisdiction is strictly limited to commercial advertising practices.
Consider the following statements regarding Deepfake technology and digital forensics:
1. Generative Adversarial Networks utilize two neural networks in a zero-sum game, and the 2018 DARPA Media Forensics program provided the technical architecture for the current National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
2. The IT Rules 2021, amended in April 2023, include provisions that categorize deepfakes as prohibited content, requiring intermediaries to remove such material within 36 hours of receiving a formal grievance.
3. The Information Technology Act of 2000 encompasses provisions for electronic evidence, and Section 66D of the Act is frequently cited by the Supreme Court in the 2022 landmark ruling on the admissibility of AI-generated video evidence.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the IT Rules 2021, amended in 2023, mandate that intermediaries must remove deepfakes or impersonating content within 36 hours of receiving a grievance. Statement 1 is incorrect because while GANs do use a zero-sum game, the DARPA Media Forensics program is a US-based research initiative and is not the technical architecture for India's National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Statement 3 is incorrect because, although Section 66D of the IT Act deals with punishment for cheating by personation using computer resources, there is no such 2022 Supreme Court landmark ruling specifically establishing a new precedent for the admissibility of AI-generated video evidence.
Consider the following statements regarding Verification protocols for user-generated content:
1. The 2018 Reuters Digital News Report identified that 54% of global internet users rely on social media platforms as a primary source for breaking news.
2. The 2019 Poynter Institute verification protocol recommends the use of reverse image search tools like Google Lens or TinEye to identify the original source of viral multimedia content.
3. The 2021 UNESCO guidelines on media information literacy suggest that metadata analysis of video files is a standard practice for newsrooms, which was first adopted during the 2012 London Olympics coverage.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2018 Reuters Digital News Report highlighted the growing reliance on social media for breaking news, while Statement 2 is correct because reverse image search tools are foundational for verifying the provenance of viral multimedia. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while metadata analysis is a standard verification practice, there is no official UNESCO guideline citing the 2012 London Olympics as the origin of this specific standard.
Consider the following statements regarding Conflict of interest in corporate-owned media houses:
1. The Press Council Act of 1978 provides for the automatic disqualification of media houses from government advertising if they fail to disclose their corporate shareholding patterns to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
2. The News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) Code of Ethics includes provisions that require member channels to maintain a clear distinction between editorial content and sponsored advertisements.
3. Section 127A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, regulates the publication of election pamphlets and posters, which is often extended by the Election Commission to monitor paid news during campaigns.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Press Council Act of 1978 does not contain provisions for the automatic disqualification of media houses from government advertising based on shareholding disclosure. Statement 2 is correct as the NBDA (formerly NBSA) Code of Ethics mandates a strict 'arm's length' separation between editorial content and advertisements to prevent conflict of interest. Statement 3 is correct because the Election Commission of India invokes Section 127A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, to mandate the declaration of printer and publisher details, which serves as a primary tool to curb 'paid news' by ensuring accountability in election-related media content.
Consider the following statements regarding Data privacy concerns in investigative journalism:
1. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, include provisions for the automatic deletion of investigative data after a period of 180 days to align with the GDPR standards adopted by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
2. The Press Council of India Act, 1978, provides for the establishment of a Data Privacy Tribunal that oversees the ethical conduct of investigative reporters who utilize metadata gathered from telecommunication service providers.
3. The Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, as proposed by the Srikrishna Committee, suggested that investigative journalists obtain prior written consent from data principals for all secondary data usage, reflecting the practices established in the 2018 EU-India Data Cooperation Framework.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because they misrepresent Indian legal frameworks: the IT Rules, 2021, focus on grievance redressal and due diligence rather than automatic deletion of investigative data; the Press Council of India Act, 1978, does not establish any Data Privacy Tribunal; and the Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019, contained specific exemptions for journalistic purposes, meaning it did not mandate prior written consent for all secondary data usage. Furthermore, the mentioned 'EU-India Data Cooperation Framework' of 2018 is not a recognized legal instrument governing data privacy in India, and the Srikrishna Committee report (2018) itself recommended exemptions for journalists to protect the freedom of the press.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of echo chambers on democratic discourse:
1. The 2019 report by the Election Commission of India on paid news identified 1,063 confirmed cases of paid news during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
2. Article 19(2) of the Indian Constitution allows the state to impose reasonable restrictions on the freedom of speech in the interests of public order and decency.
3. The 2021 Reuters Institute Digital News Report noted that 44 percent of respondents across 46 markets reported using social media as a primary source for news consumption.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Election Commission of India's 2019 post-poll report confirmed 1,063 cases of paid news across various constituencies. Statement 2 is correct because Article 19(2) explicitly empowers the state to impose reasonable restrictions on freedom of speech for reasons including public order, decency, and morality. Statement 3 is correct as the 2021 Reuters Institute Digital News Report highlighted that 44% of global respondents across 46 markets identified social media as their primary gateway for news, underscoring the rise of echo chambers.
Consider the following statements regarding Media trials and the right to a fair trial:
1. The News Broadcasters Association (NBA) Code of Ethics and Broadcasting Standards, adopted in 2008, includes provisions prohibiting the broadcast of content that declares a person guilty before a court verdict.
2. The Law Commission of India in its 200th Report recommended the introduction of a statutory ban on reporting criminal trials, and this proposal was incorporated into the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
3. The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, provides for the regulation of media reporting during active investigations, and the 2006 amendment extended these restrictions to include social media platforms.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) Code of Ethics mandates that channels should not pronounce a person guilty until a court verdict is delivered. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the 200th Law Commission Report discussed media trials, it did not recommend a blanket statutory ban, and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, does not contain such a provision. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, does not specifically regulate media reporting during active investigations, nor has it been amended in 2006 to include social media platforms.
Consider the following statements regarding Algorithmic bias in news curation:
1. The 2019 Personal Data Protection Bill contained a clause on algorithmic accountability, and the Joint Parliamentary Committee report recommended its implementation by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
2. The 2000 Information Technology Act was amended in 2008 to address digital media ethics, and the subsequent 2011 rules created the current regulatory body for algorithmic news auditing.
3. The 2022 Digital India Act proposal includes provisions for algorithmic neutrality, and it references the 2015 Supreme Court judgment on privacy to define the boundaries of news feed personalization.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because they misattribute legal provisions: the 2019 Personal Data Protection Bill did not include specific clauses on algorithmic accountability, the 2011 IT Rules pertain to intermediaries rather than creating an algorithmic auditing body, and the proposed Digital India Act does not reference a 2015 Supreme Court judgment for news feed personalization (the landmark privacy judgment was in 2017, Puttaswamy vs. Union of India). Furthermore, there is currently no statutory regulatory body in India specifically mandated to conduct algorithmic news auditing, and the Digital India Act remains a legislative proposal without the cited provisions.
Consider the following statements regarding Psychological impact of sensationalist reporting:
1. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Media Psychology found that exposure to fear-based news framing increases cortisol levels in 65% of the observed participant demographic.
2. The 1997 UNESCO Declaration on Media Ethics provides for the regulation of digital content, and under its framework, the International Federation of Journalists established the 2005 Global Sensationalism Index.
3. The Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2023 indicates that 40% of global audiences frequently encounter sensationalist headlines that trigger heightened anxiety levels.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 and 3 are correct as they accurately reflect findings from the Journal of Media Psychology and the Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2023 regarding the physiological and psychological correlations between fear-based news and audience anxiety. Statement 2 is incorrect because the 1997 UNESCO Declaration does not regulate digital content, and the 'Global Sensationalism Index' is a fictional entity not established by the International Federation of Journalists.
Consider the following statements regarding Data privacy concerns in investigative journalism:
1. The Supreme Court judgment in the 2017 Puttaswamy case establishes a framework where investigative journalism is classified as a 'commercial data activity,' thereby subjecting all journalistic data collection to the oversight of the Data Protection Board of India.
2. The Supreme Court of India, in the Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) vs. Union of India (2017) judgment, affirmed that the right to privacy is a fundamental right under Article 21, which includes the protection of personal data from unwarranted journalistic intrusion.
3. The Press Council of India’s Norms of Journalistic Conduct, revised in 2020, suggest that journalists should exercise caution while using data obtained through unauthorized access to protect the privacy of individuals not involved in the public interest narrative.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Puttaswamy judgment does not classify investigative journalism as a 'commercial data activity' nor does it subject journalistic data collection to the Data Protection Board. Statement 2 is correct as the 2017 Puttaswamy verdict recognized privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21, necessitating a balance between individual privacy and public interest. Statement 3 is correct because the Press Council of India's Norms of Journalistic Conduct emphasize that journalists must respect privacy and avoid unauthorized data access unless there is a compelling public interest justification.
Consider the following statements regarding Ethical implications of clickbait journalism:
1. The 2022 Guidelines for Influencer Advertising issued by the Department of Consumer Affairs allow for the promotion of news-based content and include provisions that define clickbait as a form of undisclosed sponsored content.
2. The Global Code of Ethics for Journalists, adopted by the International Federation of Journalists in 1954, refers to the duty of truthfulness and encompasses specific clauses that prohibit the use of misleading titles to increase web traffic.
3. The 2000 Information Technology Act provides for the protection of digital consumers and includes provisions that hold news aggregators liable for the content of clickbait headlines that lead to malicious third-party websites.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2022 Guidelines for Influencer Advertising focus on disclosure of endorsements for products/services and do not explicitly define clickbait or govern news-based content. Statement 2 is incorrect as the 1954 IFJ Declaration of Principles focuses on general journalistic integrity and truthfulness, but it does not contain specific clauses prohibiting clickbait or misleading web titles, which were not prevalent in 1954. Statement 3 is incorrect because the IT Act, 2000, primarily grants 'safe harbour' protection to intermediaries (including news aggregators) under Section 79, meaning they are generally not liable for third-party content unless they fail to comply with due diligence requirements.
Consider the following statements regarding Paid news as a violation of Representation of the People Act:
1. The Election Commission of India issued detailed guidelines in 2010 regarding the mechanism to monitor paid news during elections, involving the formation of District Level Media Certification and Monitoring Committees.
2. The Press Council of India, in its 2010 report on paid news, identified the practice as a serious malady that undermines the democratic process by blurring the distinction between news and advertisements.
3. Section 123(7) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, defines the obtaining or procuring of assistance by a candidate from government servants for the furtherance of their election prospects as a corrupt practice.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
All three statements are correct: the Election Commission of India established District Level Media Certification and Monitoring Committees (MCMCs) in 2010 to scrutinize election expenditure and curb paid news; the Press Council of India's 2010 report formally recognized paid news as a corrupt practice that deceives voters by presenting promotional content as objective journalism; and Section 123(7) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, explicitly classifies the solicitation of assistance from government officials for election prospects as a 'corrupt practice', which serves as the legal bedrock for challenging electoral integrity.
Consider the following statements regarding Regulatory frameworks for OTT platforms:
1. The 2021 Rules encompass a mandatory pre-certification process for all web series, which is conducted by the Central Board of Film Certification before digital release.
2. The Supreme Court judgment in the 2018 Justice K.S. Puttaswamy case provides the framework for the current grievance officer appointment, which is overseen by the Ministry of Law and Justice.
3. The Information Technology Act of 2000 includes provisions for the establishment of an independent regulatory body, the Digital Media Authority, to adjudicate content disputes on OTT platforms.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, rely on a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism rather than mandatory pre-certification by the CBFC. The framework is governed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, not the Ministry of Law and Justice, and it does not derive its authority from the Puttaswamy judgment, which pertains to the Right to Privacy. Furthermore, the IT Act, 2000, does not provide for a 'Digital Media Authority'; instead, the 2021 Rules establish a self-regulatory model overseen by the government.
Consider the following statements regarding Deepfake technology and digital forensics:
1. The Media Ethics Code of 2020 provides for the regulation of digital news platforms, and the Press Council of India utilizes the 2021 forensic audit guidelines to verify the authenticity of video footage during election cycles.
2. Digital forensics techniques like GAN-fingerprinting allow for the identification of synthetic media, and the 2019 Deepfake Detection Challenge was hosted by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to standardize these protocols.
3. The Budapest Convention on Cybercrime includes provisions for the protection of digital integrity, and its 2022 Second Additional Protocol incorporates specific clauses regarding the immediate criminalization of deepfake-based financial fraud.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Press Council of India does not utilize 2021 forensic audit guidelines for video verification, and the 2020 Rules primarily focus on digital media oversight rather than forensic standards. Statement 2 is incorrect as the 2019 Deepfake Detection Challenge was a global initiative hosted by major tech entities like Facebook and Microsoft, not the Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Budapest Convention focuses on cybercrime cooperation and does not contain specific clauses mandating the immediate criminalization of deepfake-based financial fraud in its Second Additional Protocol.
Consider the following statements regarding Conflict of interest in corporate-owned media houses:
1. The Press Council of India, established under the Press Council Act of 1978, maintains a set of Norms of Journalistic Conduct that addresses the ethical implications of cross-media ownership.
2. In 2014, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released recommendations on 'Media Ownership' suggesting restrictions on cross-media holdings to prevent the concentration of influence.
3. The 47th Report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology highlighted that corporate ownership of media houses often leads to the suppression of investigative reports against parent companies.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Press Council of India (PCI), established under the 1978 Act, explicitly includes guidelines on 'Media and Corporate Interests' in its Norms of Journalistic Conduct to ensure editorial independence. Statement 2 is correct because, in 2014, TRAI issued comprehensive recommendations on 'Media Ownership' to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, proposing strict caps on cross-media holdings to curb monopolistic influence. Statement 3 is correct as the 47th Report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology (2014) formally acknowledged that corporate-owned media frequently suppresses investigative journalism that could adversely impact the business interests of parent companies or their affiliates.
Consider the following statements regarding Journalistic integrity in the era of viral content:
1. In the 2014 case of Common Cause vs. Union of India, the Supreme Court noted that the government's use of public funds for advertisements in print media should avoid the projection of political figures.
2. The 2020 Digital Media Ethics Code under the IT Rules provides a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for digital news publishers to address complaints regarding content standards.
3. The News Broadcasters Association (NBA) Code of Ethics, revised in 2022, includes specific clauses regarding the avoidance of sensationalism and the necessity of disclaimers during live debates.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Supreme Court in Common Cause vs. Union of India (2015, often cited as 2014 proceedings) established guidelines prohibiting the use of public funds for political advertisements featuring individual politicians. Statement 2 is correct because the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, established a mandatory three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for digital news publishers. Statement 3 is correct as the News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) Code of Ethics includes strict provisions against sensationalism and mandates clear disclaimers during live debates to maintain journalistic standards.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Press Council of India in curbing fake news:
1. Section 13(2) of the Press Council Act, 1978, empowers the Council to build a code of conduct for newspapers, news agencies, and journalists in accordance with high professional standards.
2. The Press Council of India was reconstituted in 1979 under the Press Council Act of 1978 to preserve the freedom of the press and maintain standards of journalistic ethics.
3. The Press Council of India consists of a Chairman and 28 other members, where the Chairman is nominated by a committee consisting of the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and a member elected by the Council.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
All three statements are correct. Section 13(2) of the Press Council Act, 1978, mandates the Council to maintain and improve the standards of newspapers and news agencies in India. The Press Council of India was indeed reconstituted in 1979 under this Act to serve as a quasi-judicial body for preserving press freedom and journalistic ethics. Furthermore, the composition of the Council is defined by the Act, which specifies a Chairman and 28 members, with the Chairman's selection process involving the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and a member elected by the Council.
Consider the following statements regarding Media trials and the right to a fair trial:
1. Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, as interpreted in the Zahira Habibullah Sheikh v. State of Gujarat case, encompasses the right to a fair trial as a fundamental component of the right to life and liberty.
2. The Press Council of India Act, 1978, empowers the Council to censure media outlets for publishing content that interferes with the administration of justice or prejudices the right to a fair trial.
3. In the 2017 case of R.K. Anand v. Delhi High Court, the Supreme Court observed that media trials can exert undue pressure on the judiciary and compromise the integrity of the judicial process.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Supreme Court in Zahira Habibullah Sheikh (2006) affirmed that a fair trial is a constitutional imperative under Article 21. Statement 2 is correct because the Press Council of India Act, 1978, mandates the Council to maintain professional standards and censure media outlets for unethical conduct, including trial by media. Statement 3 is correct as the R.K. Anand v. Delhi High Court (2009) judgment explicitly cautioned against 'media trials' for encroaching upon the judicial domain and undermining the administration of justice.
Consider the following statements regarding Psychological impact of sensationalist reporting:
1. According to the 2019 WHO guidelines on mental health reporting, sensationalist coverage of suicide incidents contributes to a measurable increase in copycat behavior within the subsequent 30-day period.
2. The Press Council of India's Norms of Journalistic Conduct, updated in 2020, advise against the use of graphic imagery that may cause secondary trauma to vulnerable viewers.
3. The 2008 Information Technology Act of India includes provisions for platform accountability, and the 2011 Intermediary Guidelines were introduced to address the psychological impact of algorithmic news curation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as WHO guidelines highlight the 'Werther effect,' where sensationalized reporting of suicides leads to increased copycat incidents within a 30-day window. Statement 2 is correct because the Press Council of India's Norms of Journalistic Conduct explicitly mandate that the media avoid graphic depictions that could induce secondary trauma or distress in the public. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 2008 IT Act and 2011 Intermediary Guidelines focus on cybercrime and intermediary liability, whereas specific regulations addressing the psychological impact of algorithmic news curation were introduced much later under the 2021 IT Rules.
Consider the following statements regarding Data privacy concerns in investigative journalism:
1. Section 8(1)(j) of the Right to Information Act, 2005, restricts the disclosure of personal information which has no relationship to any public activity or interest, unless the CPIO is satisfied that the larger public interest justifies such disclosure.
2. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, provides a specific exemption for processing personal data for the purpose of journalistic activities if such processing is in the public interest.
3. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, incorporates the 'Right to be Forgotten' as a primary clause for media houses, allowing individuals to request the removal of archived investigative reports published before the enactment of the legislation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act protects personal privacy unless a larger public interest is established. Statement 2 is correct because the DPDP Act, 2023, grants exemptions for processing personal data for journalistic purposes, provided it aligns with public interest. Statement 3 is incorrect because the DPDP Act does not contain a 'Right to be Forgotten' clause, nor does it mandate the retroactive removal of archived investigative reports published prior to its enactment.
Consider the following statements regarding Ethical challenges in citizen journalism:
1. The 2015 'Code of Ethics' issued by the News Broadcasters Association focuses on the responsibility of digital platforms to distinguish between professional reporting and unverified citizen-sourced footage.
2. Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, provides the government with the authority to block public access to online information, including content originated by citizen journalists.
3. According to the 2021 Press Council of India guidelines, the lack of editorial oversight in citizen journalism creates significant challenges in maintaining the standards of accuracy and objectivity.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the NBA (now NBDSA) Code of Ethics mandates that broadcasters must exercise caution and verify citizen-sourced footage before airing to ensure credibility. Statement 2 is correct because Section 69A of the IT Act empowers the government to block content in the interest of sovereignty, integrity, and public order, which is frequently applied to unverified digital content. Statement 3 is correct as the Press Council of India consistently emphasizes that the absence of professional editorial gatekeeping in citizen journalism often leads to the compromise of journalistic standards like accuracy and neutrality.
Consider the following statements regarding Legal remedies against defamation and misinformation:
1. The Supreme Court of India in the Subramanian Swamy v. Union of India (2016) judgment upheld the constitutional validity of Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code.
2. The Defamation Act of 1960 is associated with the codification of civil remedies for misinformation in India and provides for the recovery of damages in cases involving the publication of false statements in electronic media.
3. The Working Journalists and Other Newspaper Employees Act of 1955 governs the editorial independence of digital newsrooms and provides for the establishment of a national ombudsman to adjudicate complaints of paid news.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct because the Supreme Court in Subramanian Swamy v. Union of India (2016) ruled that criminal defamation under Sections 499 and 500 of the IPC is a reasonable restriction on free speech under Article 19(2). Statement 2 is incorrect as there is no 'Defamation Act of 1960'; civil defamation in India is governed by the law of torts based on common law principles, not a specific statute. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Working Journalists Act of 1955 regulates service conditions for print media employees and does not establish a national ombudsman for digital newsrooms or paid news adjudication.
Consider the following statements regarding Verification protocols for user-generated content:
1. The Press Council of India's 2010 norms on journalistic conduct include provisions for verifying user-generated content, and these guidelines were formally incorporated into the Cable Television Networks Act in 2014.
2. Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 provides for the safe harbour protection of intermediaries, provided they observe due diligence in removing unlawful content upon receiving actual knowledge.
3. The 2017 International Fact-Checking Network code of principles allows for the crowdsourcing of news verification, a mechanism that was first piloted by the Associated Press during the 2008 US Presidential election.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct because Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000 grants 'safe harbour' immunity to intermediaries, contingent upon their adherence to due diligence guidelines and the removal of unlawful content upon notification. Statement 1 is incorrect because while the Press Council of India has guidelines, they were not formally incorporated into the Cable Television Networks Act in 2014; instead, the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021 introduced the Code of Ethics for digital media. Statement 3 is incorrect because, although the IFCN code emphasizes transparency and non-partisanship, it does not specifically mandate or define crowdsourcing as a core verification mechanism, and the Associated Press's 2008 initiative was a specific editorial project rather than a formal adoption of an IFCN-style code.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Press Council of India in curbing fake news:
1. In its 2010 report on 'Paid News', the Press Council of India recommended that the Representation of the People Act, 1951, be amended to make 'paid news' an electoral malpractice.
2. The Press Council of India was established following the recommendations of the First Press Commission of 1954, which suggested that the Council oversee the licensing of all digital news portals operating within the country.
3. The Press Council of India functions as a quasi-judicial body that adjudicates complaints against the media, but it lacks the legal authority to impose financial penalties or suspend the registration of a publication.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the PCI's 2010 report explicitly recommended amending the Representation of the People Act, 1951, to categorize 'paid news' as an electoral malpractice. Statement 3 is correct because the PCI acts as a quasi-judicial body with limited powers, meaning it can issue censures or warnings but cannot impose financial penalties or suspend publications. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the PCI was established following the 1954 First Press Commission, its mandate is limited to print media and does not include the licensing or regulation of digital news portals.
Consider the following statements regarding Ethical challenges in citizen journalism:
1. The 2019 Digital Media Ethics Code provides for the voluntary disclosure of funding sources by citizen journalists, and it classifies independent social media influencers as formal members of the Press Association of India.
2. The 2018 Reuters Institute Digital News Report highlighted that citizen journalism platforms often struggle with the verification of user-generated content during breaking news events.
3. The 2005 Right to Information Act includes a clause for the protection of citizen journalists, and it allows them to access government records under the same terms as established news agencies.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the Reuters Institute Digital News Report consistently highlights the systemic difficulty of verifying user-generated content in real-time, which remains a primary ethical hurdle for citizen journalism. Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2021 IT Rules (not 2019) govern digital media and do not classify influencers as members of the Press Association of India. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 2005 RTI Act grants the right to information to all 'citizens' equally, but it contains no specific provisions or legal protections tailored for 'citizen journalists' as a distinct professional category.
Consider the following statements regarding Paid news as a violation of Representation of the People Act:
1. The Representation of the People Act, 1951, includes provisions under Section 77 that limit the total election expenditure of a candidate, and this limit was revised by the Election Commission in 2022 to account for the increased costs of digital media campaigning.
2. The Supreme Court of India, in the Ashok Shankarrao Chavan v. Madhavrao Kinhalkar case, observed that the Election Commission has the authority to inquire into the correctness of election expenditure accounts filed by candidates.
3. Under the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, election expenditure incurred by a candidate must be accounted for, and the failure to disclose payments made for media coverage can lead to disqualification.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because while Section 77 mandates expenditure limits, the revision of these limits in 2022 was notified by the Ministry of Law and Justice, not the Election Commission of India. Statement 2 is correct as the Supreme Court in Ashok Shankarrao Chavan v. Madhavrao Kinhalkar (2014) affirmed that the ECI has the power to inquire into the veracity of expenditure accounts to prevent the suppression of 'paid news' costs. Statement 3 is correct because Section 10A of the RPA, 1951, empowers the ECI to disqualify a candidate for up to three years for failing to lodge a true and correct account of election expenses, which includes undeclared media payments.
Consider the following statements regarding Transparency in media ownership patterns:
1. The 2019 report by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology highlighted the need for greater transparency in the cross-media ownership of print and electronic platforms.
2. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) maintains oversight over media mergers and acquisitions exceeding the threshold of 2,000 crore rupees as defined under the Competition Act.
3. The 2022 amendment to the Cable Television Networks Rules introduced a provision for the disclosure of information regarding the ownership structure of digital news publishers.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2019 Parliamentary Standing Committee report raised concerns over the concentration of media ownership and its impact on plurality. Statement 2 is correct because the Competition Act, 2002 mandates CCI oversight for mergers and acquisitions that exceed specific asset or turnover thresholds, including those in the media sector. Statement 3 is correct as the 2022 amendments to the Cable Television Networks Rules mandated that digital news publishers provide information to the government regarding their ownership structure to ensure greater transparency.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of echo chambers on democratic discourse:
1. The 2020 amendment to the Foreign Direct Investment policy in India introduced a 26 percent cap on foreign investment in entities engaged in uploading or streaming of news and current affairs.
2. The 2014 report by the Standing Committee on Information Technology emphasized the need for a regulatory mechanism to address the growing menace of paid news in Indian media.
3. The algorithmic curation of content on major social media platforms is linked to the 'filter bubble' phenomenon, a term coined by Eli Pariser in his 2011 book.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2020 FDI policy amendment mandated a 26% cap on foreign investment in digital news media to ensure regulatory oversight. Statement 2 is correct because the 47th Report of the Standing Committee on Information Technology (2014) specifically highlighted 'paid news' as a serious threat to democratic integrity and recommended stronger regulatory frameworks. Statement 3 is correct as Eli Pariser introduced the 'filter bubble' concept in his 2011 book, describing how personalized algorithms isolate users from diverse viewpoints, thereby fostering echo chambers.
Consider the following statements regarding Accountability of social media intermediaries:
1. Significant social media intermediaries, defined as those with over 5 million registered users in India, are subject to additional due diligence requirements under the 2021 Rules.
2. The 2021 IT Rules introduced the concept of 'significant social media intermediaries' based on the threshold of 10 million registered users, a figure originally proposed by the Justice B.N. Srikrishna Committee report on data protection.
3. The Information Technology Act of 2000 was amended in 2008 to include Section 69A, which empowers the central government to block public access to information through any computer resource based on the recommendations of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct because the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, classify intermediaries with over 5 million registered users as 'Significant Social Media Intermediaries' (SSMIs). Statement 2 is incorrect because the 5 million threshold was set by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, not the Srikrishna Committee, which focused on data privacy rather than intermediary categorization. Statement 3 is incorrect because Section 69A empowers the Central Government to block content based on grounds of sovereignty, integrity, and public order, not on the recommendations of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
Consider the following statements regarding Ethical standards in political advertising:
1. The Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2006, encompasses the requirement for political parties to submit their advertisement scripts to the District Magistrate for approval at least 72 hours before the scheduled broadcast.
2. The Supreme Court judgment in the 2014 Ashok Shankarrao Chavan case refers to the inclusion of paid news expenses in the election expenditure account, which is overseen by the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
3. The 1996 guidelines issued by the Election Commission regarding political advertisements are associated with the introduction of the Electronic Voting Machine verification process to prevent the spread of misleading political data.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Election Commission of India, not the District Magistrate, mandates the pre-certification of political advertisements through Media Certification and Monitoring Committees (MCMC). Statement 2 is incorrect as the Election Commission of India, not the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, oversees election expenditure accounts, and the Ashok Shankarrao Chavan case specifically dealt with the legal definition of 'paid news' as an electoral malpractice. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 1996 guidelines relate to the Model Code of Conduct and the regulation of political broadcasts, and they have no connection to the introduction of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) verification processes.
Consider the following statements regarding Ethical standards in political advertising:
1. The Election Commission of India introduced the concept of Media Certification and Monitoring Committees in 2010 to scrutinize political advertisements for potential paid news content.
2. The Model Code of Conduct, adopted during the 1968 general elections, includes provisions for the immediate disqualification of candidates found circulating unverified political claims on digital platforms.
3. The News Broadcasters Association established the Code of Ethics in 2008, which provides for the regulation of political advertising content during state assembly elections by limiting the duration of prime-time slots.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Election Commission of India mandated Media Certification and Monitoring Committees (MCMCs) in 2010 to curb 'paid news' by pre-certifying political advertisements. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is a set of guidelines without statutory force for immediate disqualification, and it does not contain specific provisions for the automatic disqualification of candidates for digital misinformation. Statement 3 is incorrect because the News Broadcasters Association (now News Broadcasters & Digital Association) Code of Ethics focuses on self-regulation of broadcast standards and does not possess the legal authority to regulate political advertising slots during state elections.
Consider the following statements regarding Self-regulation vs statutory regulation of digital media:
1. The Digital India Act of 2023 provides for the registration of all social media influencers as news entities, bringing them under the purview of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's regulatory framework.
2. The self-regulatory bodies formed under the 2021 Rules are empowered to impose monetary penalties on digital news publishers, subject to the final approval of the District Magistrate.
3. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, establish a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for digital news publishers and OTT platforms.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the IT Rules, 2021, mandate a three-tier structure: self-regulation by publishers, self-regulatory bodies, and an Inter-Departmental Committee under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Digital India Act is a proposed legislative framework that has not yet been enacted, and no such provision exists requiring influencers to register as news entities. Statement 2 is incorrect because the self-regulatory bodies lack the legal authority to impose monetary penalties; the 2021 Rules empower the government to issue directions, but they do not grant self-regulatory bodies punitive financial powers subject to a District Magistrate.
Consider the following statements regarding Ethical implications of clickbait journalism:
1. The 2019 Digital Media Ethics Code refers to the classification of online news content and encompasses the requirement that platforms verify the accuracy of viral headlines before their distribution on social media platforms.
2. The Press Council of India, established under the Press Council Act of 1978, maintains that journalistic ethics are compromised when headlines deliberately omit context to generate disproportionate advertising revenue.
3. The Press Council of India’s 2010 report on paid news identifies clickbait as a form of surrogate advertising and suggests that such practices fall under the purview of the Election Commission of India during state assembly elections.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the Press Council of India (PCI) Act of 1978 mandates ethical standards, and the PCI has consistently censured sensationalism that sacrifices accuracy for commercial gain. Statement 1 is incorrect because the 'Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021' (not 2019) govern digital media, and they do not mandate pre-verification of viral headlines by platforms. Statement 3 is incorrect because the PCI's 2010 report on 'Paid News' focused on electoral malpractice and bribery rather than defining clickbait as surrogate advertising, nor did it place clickbait under the Election Commission's direct purview.
Consider the following statements regarding Role of Press Council of India in curbing fake news:
1. Under the Press Council Act of 1978, the Council holds the authority to issue binding directives to state governments regarding the regulation of social media content during periods of civil unrest.
2. The Press Council of India maintains a centralized database of verified journalists under the Information Technology Rules of 2021, which provides the Council the power to revoke press accreditation for spreading misinformation.
3. The Press Council of India is empowered by the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act of 1995 to conduct surprise inspections of private news channels to verify the accuracy of broadcasted political advertisements.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the Press Council of India (PCI) is a quasi-judicial body with a mandate limited to print media and lacks the authority to issue binding directives to state governments, regulate social media, or inspect broadcast channels. The PCI does not maintain a centralized database of journalists under the IT Rules of 2021, as accreditation is managed by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), and it holds no jurisdiction under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act of 1995, which is governed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Consequently, the PCI functions primarily as a self-regulatory body for newspapers and news agencies, possessing only the power to censure or warn, rather than enforce punitive or administrative actions across digital or broadcast platforms.
Consider the following statements regarding Deepfake technology and digital forensics:
1. Blockchain-based provenance tracking allows for the verification of original media, and the 2021 UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence provides for a global ban on the commercial distribution of deepfake software.
2. Digital watermarking is a method for content authentication, and the 2023 EU AI Act includes provisions that define deepfakes as a form of intellectual property theft under the revised Digital Services Act framework.
3. The 2023 G7 Hiroshima AI Process serves as an international framework that addresses the risks of generative AI and deepfakes, emphasizing the development of watermarking standards for digital content.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct because the 2023 G7 Hiroshima AI Process established an international code of conduct for organizations developing advanced AI systems, specifically prioritizing the adoption of watermarking to identify AI-generated content. Statement 1 is incorrect because while UNESCO's 2021 Recommendation promotes ethical AI development, it does not mandate a global ban on the commercial distribution of deepfake software. Statement 2 is incorrect because the EU AI Act classifies deepfakes as a transparency risk requiring mandatory labeling rather than categorizing them as intellectual property theft under the Digital Services Act.
Consider the following statements regarding Media trials and the right to a fair trial:
1. The Supreme Court in the Sahara India Real Estate Corp. Ltd. v. SEBI case held that the right to freedom of speech under Article 19(1)(a) is subordinate to the right to a fair trial, and trial courts possess the inherent power to issue permanent injunctions against media houses.
2. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, provides for a self-regulatory body for digital news portals, and this body maintains a centralized database of all ongoing criminal investigations to monitor potential media bias.
3. The Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, established a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism, and the first tier is chaired by a retired judge of the Supreme Court to oversee media coverage of sub-judice matters.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because while the Supreme Court in Sahara India (2012) acknowledged the conflict between free speech and fair trial, it held that postponement orders are temporary measures, not permanent injunctions. Statement 2 is incorrect as the IT Rules, 2021, mandate a self-regulatory body for digital media, but it does not maintain a centralized database of criminal investigations. Statement 3 is incorrect because the three-tier grievance mechanism under the 2021 Rules mandates that the first tier be handled by the publisher themselves, while the third tier (Inter-Departmental Committee) is chaired by an officer of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, not a retired Supreme Court judge.
Consider the following statements regarding Journalistic integrity in the era of viral content:
1. The Press Council of India, established under the Act of 1978, maintains a set of norms for journalistic conduct that specifically address the verification of information before publication.
2. The Press Council of India was reconstituted in 1979 to include members from the electronic media, and it currently holds the authority to penalize digital news platforms for violating journalistic standards.
3. The 2018 amendment to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines) Rules introduced provisions for social media platforms to identify the first originator of information to curb viral misinformation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Press Council of India (PCI) was established under the Press Council Act, 1978, and mandates strict verification of information to ensure accuracy. Statement 3 is correct because the 2021 IT Rules (often associated with the ongoing regulatory discourse initiated around 2018) introduced the 'first originator' traceability requirement to curb viral misinformation. Statement 2 is incorrect because the PCI's jurisdiction is limited to print media and it lacks the statutory authority to penalize digital news platforms or electronic media, which are governed by different regulatory frameworks like the IT Rules, 2021.
Consider the following statements regarding Algorithmic bias in news curation:
1. The 2017 Justice B.N. Srikrishna Committee report proposed a framework for data protection, and it suggested that algorithmic transparency should be overseen by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India.
2. The Press Council of India Act, 1978, includes provisions for the regulation of digital news algorithms, and the 2019 draft amendment extended these powers to social media platforms.
3. The 2021 Information Technology Rules introduced the concept of 'significant social media intermediaries' to enhance accountability for algorithmic content curation.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct because the 2021 IT Rules introduced 'Significant Social Media Intermediaries' (SSMIs) to mandate greater accountability, including grievance redressal and due diligence regarding content curation. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Justice B.N. Srikrishna Committee focused on personal data protection and recommended a Data Protection Authority, not the TRAI, for algorithmic oversight. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Press Council of India Act, 1978, applies only to print media and does not possess the legal mandate to regulate digital news algorithms or social media platforms.
Consider the following statements regarding Ethical challenges in citizen journalism:
1. The 2008 Information Technology Amendment Act introduced specific provisions for the accreditation of citizen journalists, and it links their legal protection to the same standards as print media reporters.
2. The 2012 Supreme Court judgment in the Shreya Singhal case addressed the role of citizen journalism, and it established a national council to monitor the ethical conduct of independent digital content creators.
3. The 1995 Press Council Act serves as the primary legal framework for regulating citizen journalists, and it provides for the registration of individual bloggers with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because there is no specific legislation in India that mandates the accreditation or registration of citizen journalists, nor does the 2008 IT Amendment Act or the 1995 Press Council Act extend such regulatory frameworks to them. The Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015) judgment primarily struck down Section 66A of the IT Act for being unconstitutional and did not establish a national council for monitoring digital content creators. Currently, citizen journalism remains largely unregulated by statutory bodies, and legal protections for traditional media do not automatically apply to independent digital content producers.
Consider the following statements regarding Paid news as a violation of Representation of the People Act:
1. As per the 2013 amendment to the Model Code of Conduct, political advertisements published in newspapers on the poll day and one day prior require pre-certification from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee.
2. The Election Commission of India established the Media Certification and Monitoring Committee in 2004 to oversee the content of political advertisements, and this committee operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
3. The Press Council of India functions under the Press Council Act of 1978, which provides for the adjudication of complaints against newspapers, and this body maintains the power to impose financial penalties on media houses found guilty of publishing paid news.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct because the ECI mandates pre-certification of political advertisements by the MCMC to curb paid news during the critical pre-poll period. Statement 2 is incorrect as the MCMC functions under the Election Commission of India, not the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Statement 3 is incorrect because while the Press Council of India can censure or warn newspapers for ethical violations, it lacks the statutory authority to impose financial penalties.
Consider the following statements regarding Influence of bot networks on public opinion:
1. The Digital Personal Data Protection Act of 2023 introduces provisions for a Data Protection Board to address grievances related to algorithmic manipulation.
2. As of 2022, the Election Commission of India has integrated social media monitoring cells to track paid news and bot-driven political campaigning during state assembly elections.
3. The 2020 Oxford Internet Institute report identified 81 countries where government agencies utilize social media bot networks to influence public opinion.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the DPDP Act, 2023 establishes the Data Protection Board of India to handle grievances, including those involving automated processing and algorithmic accountability. Statement 2 is correct because the ECI has mandated social media monitoring cells since 2013, which were significantly expanded by 2022 to track paid news and bot-driven influence during elections. Statement 3 is correct as the 2020 Oxford Internet Institute's 'Computational Propaganda' report confirmed that government agencies in 81 countries, including India, employ bot networks to manipulate public discourse.
Consider the following statements regarding Journalistic integrity in the era of viral content:
1. The Election Commission of India issued guidelines in 2013 regarding Paid News, which allows the commission to disqualify candidates based on the recommendations of the Press Council of India.
2. The 2000 Information Technology Act contains provisions for the regulation of fake news, and the 2008 amendment established the Cyber Appellate Tribunal as the primary body for adjudicating media ethics complaints.
3. The 1954 First Press Commission report recommended the creation of a statutory body for the press, and this recommendation led to the formation of the News Broadcasters Federation in 1966.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because while the ECI monitors paid news, it lacks the legal authority to disqualify candidates solely based on Press Council of India (PCI) recommendations; disqualification is governed by the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Statement 2 is incorrect as the IT Act, 2000 does not contain specific provisions for regulating 'fake news,' and the Cyber Appellate Tribunal was established to adjudicate cyber-related disputes, not media ethics complaints. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 1954 First Press Commission recommended the establishment of the Press Council of India, which was eventually formed in 1966, not the News Broadcasters Federation, which is a private industry association.
Consider the following statements regarding Psychological impact of sensationalist reporting:
1. The 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights encompasses the right to information, and the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights serves as the legal basis for the 1972 global ban on sensationalist broadcasting.
2. Research by the Oxford Internet Institute in 2022 identified that algorithms prioritizing high-arousal content increase the average time spent on platforms by 15% compared to neutral reporting.
3. The 2018 Data Protection Act of the UK includes provisions regarding the psychological impact of digital content, recognizing that manipulative design patterns can exacerbate existing cognitive biases.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because while the UDHR and ICCPR protect freedom of information, there is no international legal instrument that established a global ban on sensationalist broadcasting in 1972. Statement 2 is accurate as research, including studies by the Oxford Internet Institute, confirms that algorithmic curation favoring high-arousal content significantly boosts user engagement and time spent on platforms. Statement 3 is correct because the UK Data Protection Act 2018, alongside the Age Appropriate Design Code, specifically addresses how manipulative 'dark patterns' and digital designs can exploit cognitive biases and negatively impact the mental well-being of users.
Consider the following statements regarding Ethical standards in political advertising:
1. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, includes provisions for the establishment of a grievance redressal mechanism that handles complaints regarding political advertisements published in print media.
2. The Press Council of India issued guidelines in 2010 stating that newspapers should clearly distinguish between news and advertisements by using labels such as 'Advertorial' or 'Paid Advertisement' for content published in exchange for monetary consideration.
3. Under Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, there is a prohibition on displaying election matter by means of cinematograph, television, or other similar apparatus during the 48-hour period ending with the hour fixed for the conclusion of poll.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the IT Rules, 2021, apply to digital media intermediaries and OTT platforms, not print media, which is governed by the Press Council of India. Statement 2 is correct as the Press Council of India's 2010 guidelines mandate that newspapers must clearly label paid content as 'Advertorial' or 'Paid Advertisement' to ensure transparency. Statement 3 is correct because Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, enforces a 'silence period' prohibiting the display of election-related material via electronic media during the 48 hours preceding the conclusion of polling.
Consider the following statements regarding Conflict of interest in corporate-owned media houses:
1. The 2019 report by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism identified that in India, a significant portion of major news outlets are owned by conglomerates with diverse interests in infrastructure and mining.
2. The Election Commission of India, under the 2010 guidelines on paid news, encompasses the power to suspend the broadcasting license of any news channel found to be promoting a candidate without a formal declaration.
3. The 2014 TRAI recommendations on media ownership include provisions for the immediate divestment of media assets by corporate entities that hold more than 20% stake in non-media sectors.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Reuters Institute's Digital News Report consistently highlights that many Indian media houses are owned by conglomerates with cross-sectoral interests, creating potential editorial bias. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Election Commission of India lacks the statutory authority to suspend broadcasting licenses, a power that rests solely with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while TRAI issued recommendations in 2014 regarding cross-media ownership, it did not mandate immediate divestment for entities with a 20% stake, but rather suggested regulatory frameworks to prevent monopolies and ensure plurality.
Consider the following statements regarding Regulatory frameworks for OTT platforms:
1. The Inter-Departmental Committee, chaired by the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, functions as the third tier of the grievance redressal structure.
2. The Press Council of India Act of 1978 provides the legal basis for the current oversight of OTT content, extending the Council's jurisdiction to include digital streaming services.
3. Under the 2021 Rules, the self-classification of content by OTT platforms into five age-based categories, including U/A 7+ and U/A 16+, is a standard practice for parental guidance.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, establish a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism, with the Inter-Departmental Committee acting as the final oversight tier. Statement 3 is correct because the 2021 Rules mandate self-classification of content into five categories: U (Universal), U/A 7+, U/A 13+, U/A 16+, and A (Adult). Statement 2 is incorrect because the Press Council of India Act, 1978, applies only to print media; OTT platforms are currently regulated under the IT Rules, 2021, which are notified under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Consider the following statements regarding Legal remedies against defamation and misinformation:
1. The Cinematograph Act of 1952 includes provisions for the certification of online streaming content and establishes the Central Board of Film Certification as the primary authority for regulating digital media ethics.
2. The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act of 1995 provides for the registration of digital news portals and allows the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to issue direct takedown orders for fake news content.
3. Article 19(2) of the Indian Constitution allows the state to impose reasonable restrictions on the freedom of speech and expression in the interests of public order, decency, or morality.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as Article 19(2) explicitly empowers the state to impose reasonable restrictions on free speech for reasons including public order, decency, and morality. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Cinematograph Act, 1952, regulates films for public exhibition in cinemas and does not govern online streaming content, which is primarily covered under the IT Rules, 2021. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, applies to linear television broadcasting, not digital news portals, which are instead regulated under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
Consider the following statements regarding Legal remedies against defamation and misinformation:
1. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, introduced a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for digital news publishers and OTT platforms.
2. Section 499 of the Indian Penal Code defines criminal defamation and includes exceptions such as the publication of any imputation on the character of another, provided it is made for the public good.
3. The Press Council of India, established under the Press Council Act of 1978, maintains a set of Norms of Journalistic Conduct to regulate ethical standards in print media.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the IT Rules 2021 mandate a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism involving self-regulation by publishers, a self-regulating body, and an inter-departmental committee. Statement 2 is correct because Section 499 of the IPC defines criminal defamation and explicitly lists ten exceptions, including good-faith imputations for public good. Statement 3 is correct as the Press Council of India was established under the 1978 Act to preserve press freedom and maintain high standards, which it enforces through its published Norms of Journalistic Conduct.
Consider the following statements regarding Influence of bot networks on public opinion:
1. The 2017 Budapest Convention on Cybercrime provides a framework for tracking cross-border botnet activities, and India ratified the treaty in 2019 to enhance its digital forensic capabilities.
2. The 2019 Press Council of India guidelines on paid news define bot-driven content as a form of surrogate advertising, and the council maintains a registry of verified social media influencers for electoral transparency.
3. The 2021 Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code identifies bot networks as a threat to national security, and the code empowers the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to initiate criminal proceedings against anonymous account holders.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because India has not ratified the 2001 Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, citing concerns over sovereignty and data access provisions. Statement 2 is incorrect as the Press Council of India has not issued specific guidelines defining bot-driven content as surrogate advertising, nor does it maintain a registry of social media influencers. Statement 3 is incorrect because the 2021 IT Rules focus on due diligence and grievance redressal for intermediaries rather than empowering the MeitY to initiate direct criminal proceedings against anonymous account holders.
Consider the following statements regarding Algorithmic bias in news curation:
1. A 2018 study by the MIT Media Lab found that false news stories on Twitter diffused significantly farther, faster, and deeper than true news stories.
2. The News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) code of ethics covers algorithmic curation practices, and the 2020 guidelines established a specific grievance redressal mechanism for automated news feeds.
3. Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, provides the legal basis for the government to issue directions for blocking public access to information through any computer resource.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the 2018 MIT study confirmed that false news on Twitter spreads six times faster and reaches more people than the truth due to human novelty-seeking behavior. Statement 3 is correct because Section 69A of the IT Act empowers the government to block public access to information in the interest of sovereignty, integrity, and public order. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the NBDA has a Code of Ethics, it primarily focuses on broadcast and digital content standards rather than providing a specific, legally binding grievance redressal mechanism for algorithmic curation practices.
Consider the following statements regarding Accountability of social media intermediaries:
1. The Supreme Court of India in the Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015) judgment struck down Section 66A of the Information Technology Act for being vague and overbroad.
2. Rule 3(1)(b) of the 2021 IT Rules specifies that intermediaries should inform users not to host, display, or upload information that is patently false and untrue.
3. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules were notified by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on February 25, 2021.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Supreme Court in Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015) declared Section 66A unconstitutional for violating Article 19(1)(a) due to its vague and ambiguous terminology. Statement 2 is correct because the 2021 IT Rules mandate that intermediaries exercise due diligence by informing users to refrain from uploading content that is patently false or misleading. Statement 3 is correct as the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology officially notified these rules on February 25, 2021, to establish a framework for digital media and social media oversight.
Consider the following statements regarding Transparency in media ownership patterns:
1. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued guidelines in 2014 requiring television channels to upload their shareholding patterns on their official websites on a quarterly basis.
2. The Press Council of India, established under the Press Council Act of 1978, monitors the disclosure of ownership patterns to prevent the monopolization of media outlets.
3. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) published a consultation paper in 2013 regarding the concentration of ownership in the Indian media sector.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the MIB mandated quarterly disclosure of shareholding patterns for TV channels in 2014 to ensure transparency. Statement 2 is correct because the Press Council of India, under the 1978 Act, is empowered to study and report on media ownership trends to check monopolistic tendencies. Statement 3 is correct as TRAI released a comprehensive consultation paper in 2013 titled 'Issues relating to Media Ownership' to address concerns regarding cross-media holdings and market concentration.
Consider the following statements regarding Impact of echo chambers on democratic discourse:
1. Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, provides the legal framework for the government to block public access to online information in the interest of sovereignty and integrity.
2. The 2018 study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that false news stories on Twitter are 70 percent more likely to be retweeted than true stories.
3. The Press Council of India, established under the Press Council Act of 1978, maintains a set of Norms of Journalistic Conduct that addresses the ethical implications of paid news.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as Section 69A of the IT Act empowers the government to block content to protect India's sovereignty, integrity, and public order. Statement 2 is correct because the 2018 MIT study published in Science confirmed that false news spreads significantly faster and deeper than the truth on Twitter, primarily due to novelty and emotional arousal. Statement 3 is correct as the Press Council of India, a statutory body under the 1978 Act, explicitly includes 'paid news' as a violation of its 'Norms of Journalistic Conduct' to ensure media integrity.
Consider the following statements regarding Accountability of social media intermediaries:
1. The Grievance Officer appointed by a significant social media intermediary is tasked with acknowledging a complaint within 24 hours and resolving it within 15 days.
2. The 2022 amendments to the IT Rules introduced the Grievance Appellate Committee to address user appeals against decisions made by the grievance officers of intermediaries.
3. Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 provides a 'safe harbour' protection to intermediaries, provided they observe due diligence while discharging their duties.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 mandate that significant social media intermediaries must acknowledge complaints within 24 hours and dispose of them within 15 days. Statement 2 is correct because the 2022 amendments established the Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC) to provide users a mechanism to appeal decisions made by intermediary grievance officers. Statement 3 is correct as Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000 grants 'safe harbour' immunity to intermediaries from legal liability for third-party content, contingent upon their adherence to prescribed due diligence guidelines.
Consider the following statements regarding Self-regulation vs statutory regulation of digital media:
1. The Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules of 2021 introduced a self-regulatory body for digital media, which functions under the direct administrative control of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
2. The Press Council of India Act of 1978 provides the legal basis for the current oversight of digital news portals, extending the same punitive powers over online content as it holds for print media.
3. The Supreme Court in the Common Cause vs. Union of India (2015) case established a framework for digital media regulation, which serves as the primary reference point for the current IT Rules.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 2021 Rules mandate a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism where the self-regulatory body is independent, not under the direct administrative control of the Ministry. Statement 2 is incorrect as the Press Council of India Act, 1978 applies exclusively to print media and does not extend its jurisdiction or punitive powers to digital news portals. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Common Cause vs. Union of India (2015) case dealt with government advertisements, not the establishment of a regulatory framework for digital media, which was instead introduced via the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
Consider the following statements regarding Regulatory frameworks for OTT platforms:
1. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules were notified by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on February 25, 2021.
2. Part III of the 2021 Rules establishes a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for digital news publishers and OTT platforms operating within India.
3. The Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules of 2021 introduced a statutory registration process for OTT platforms, which functions under the oversight of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 and 2 are correct as the IT Rules, 2021 were notified on February 25, 2021, by MeitY and introduced a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism for digital news and OTT platforms. Statement 3 is incorrect because there is no statutory registration process for OTT platforms under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, nor does the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) oversee these platforms; the rules rely on a self-regulatory model under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Consider the following statements regarding Self-regulation vs statutory regulation of digital media:
1. The News Broadcasters & Digital Association (NBDA) operates under the supervision of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, which monitors the adherence of digital outlets to the Code of Ethics.
2. The Code of Ethics for digital media, as outlined in the 2021 Rules, draws its authority from the Cinematograph Act of 1952, applying identical certification standards to all online news videos.
3. The Information Technology Act of 2000 includes specific provisions for the licensing of digital news websites, which are processed through the Press Information Bureau's digital accreditation portal.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the NBDA is an independent self-regulatory body not supervised by TRAI, the 2021 IT Rules derive their authority from the Information Technology Act, 2000 rather than the Cinematograph Act, and the IT Act contains no provisions for the mandatory licensing of digital news websites. The 2021 Rules establish a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism that emphasizes self-regulation by publishers, followed by self-regulatory bodies, and finally government oversight, rather than a licensing regime.
Consider the following statements regarding Verification protocols for user-generated content:
1. The 2015 Digital India initiative encompasses the establishment of a national verification portal for social media accounts, which operates under the oversight of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
2. The 2013 News Broadcasters Association guidelines refer to the use of timestamp verification for citizen journalism, a policy that was initially drafted following the 2005 Mumbai floods to standardize newsroom ethics.
3. The 2016 European Union Code of Practice on Disinformation includes provisions for algorithmic transparency, and it serves as the primary legal framework for the regulation of deepfake technology in India.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect: the 2015 Digital India initiative did not establish a national verification portal for social media; the 2013 News Broadcasters Association guidelines do not contain specific timestamp protocols for citizen journalism linked to the 2005 Mumbai floods; and the 2016 EU Code of Practice on Disinformation is a voluntary self-regulatory framework that holds no legal authority over Indian domestic regulations regarding deepfakes.
Consider the following statements regarding Influence of bot networks on public opinion:
1. Section 66A of the Information Technology Act was struck down by the Supreme Court in the 2015 Shreya Singhal v. Union of India judgment.
2. The 2018 MIT study published in Science analyzed 126,000 stories on Twitter and found that false news spreads six times faster than the truth.
3. The 2000 Information Technology Act includes provisions for regulating automated bot traffic, and the 2008 amendment established the Cyber Appellate Tribunal to adjudicate cases of coordinated inauthentic behavior.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Supreme Court in Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015) struck down Section 66A for being unconstitutionally vague and chilling to free speech. Statement 2 is correct because the 2018 MIT study in Science confirmed that false news reaches more people and spreads significantly faster than the truth on Twitter. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Information Technology Act, 2000 and its 2008 amendment do not contain specific provisions for regulating automated bot traffic or coordinated inauthentic behavior, nor did the amendment establish the Cyber Appellate Tribunal for that specific purpose.
Consider the following statements regarding Transparency in media ownership patterns:
1. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules of 2021 include provisions for the disclosure of significant social media intermediary ownership details.
2. The Press and Registration of Books Act of 1867 provides for the annual submission of circulation figures to the Registrar of Newspapers for India, which serves as the primary mechanism for verifying the editorial independence of private media houses.
3. The 2012 report by the Committee on Paid News, constituted by the Election Commission of India, encompasses the recommendation to link political advertising revenue with the mandatory public disclosure of media house board members.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the IT Rules, 2021 mandate that Significant Social Media Intermediaries (SSMIs) disclose details of their Chief Compliance Officer and ownership structure to ensure accountability. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the PRB Act, 1867 requires the submission of circulation figures, it is a regulatory mechanism for registration and does not function as a tool for verifying editorial independence. Statement 3 is incorrect because the ECI Committee on Paid News (2010) focused on electoral malpractices and expenditure monitoring, and it did not mandate the linking of political advertising revenue with the public disclosure of board members.