Critical Analysis of Content Checking Organizations in India in Debunking Political Disinformation Spread on social media During Lok Sabha Elections 2019

Singh, Gurpreet

Research Scholar, Journalism and Mass Communication, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab

Abstract

The spread of political disinformation is an urgent problem that significantly impacts society by shaping public opinion and election results. In the fight against political disinformation, content verification organizations (CVOs) act as guiding lights of reality. CVOs use a variety of tactics to combat false information, including fact-checking, writing articles to refute claims, and posting clarifications on social media. Additionally, CVOs carry out in-depth research, illuminating the widespread impact of disinformation on voter opinion and election outcomes. CVOs have amassed sizable fan bases and have a favorable influence on election processes and public opinion. According to studies, a single fact-check may influence up to 100,000 people, with 10% of respondents changing their political opinions as a result. Notably, 5% of votes cast in the 2019 Indian Lok Sabha elections went to candidates whose claims had been confirmed by CVOs. Despite their admirable efforts, CVOs confront obstacles, most of which are brought on by inadequate finance, which limits their ability to successfully combat false information. Significant challenges are also posed by political meddling and social media platform rules. Nevertheless, CVOs consistently work to combat political disinformation, enabling people to make wise judgments. Governments and social media platforms must acknowledge the role played by CVOs and provide them with the assistance and safeguards they need against outside interference.

Keywords: Political Disinformation, Content Verification Organizations, Fact-Checking, Public Opinion, Election Results, Disinformation.

Impact Statement

It is helpful to research to understand how fact-checking organizations handled disinformation during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The research can be useful in determining how common it is to find false information during elections. The public can benefit from these findings by learning more about the strategies politicians employ to win over votes. The study is a useful resource for the Indian fact-checking organization as well.  

About Author

Gurpreet Singh, PhD Research Scholar, Centre for Advanced Media Studies, Punjabi University, Patiala. I have completed my MAJMC and MPhil from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Punjabi University, Patiala. The researcher has Qualified UGC-NET and presented/published 05 research papers in international and national journals. The researcher has worked as Assistant Professor at Khalsa College Amritsar and Akal degree college for women, Sangrur and presently working as an Assistant Professor at Sant Baba Attar Singh Khalsa College, Sandaur, Malerkotla (Punjab).

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