SRINAGAR — National Conference MLA Saif-ud-Din Bhat is set to move a Private Members’ Bill in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly seeking to establish a framework for the registration, recognition, accreditation and responsible functioning of digital news publishers and social media news channels operating in or from the Union Territory.
According to the Assembly’s listed business, Bhat will seek leave to introduce the proposed legislation, titled a Bill to provide for a transparent, technology-enabled and accountable framework for digital news publishers and social media news channels in J&K. The proposal is listed as L.A. Private Members’ Bill No. 62 of 2026.
The proposed Bill aims to bring greater transparency to the functioning of digital media platforms by providing mechanisms for disclosure of ownership and strengthening editorial responsibility.
Another key component of the proposed legislation is the establishment of mechanisms for real-time media monitoring and fact-checking, with the stated objective of addressing the dissemination of false information.
The Bill also proposes measures to facilitate access to official information and accreditation for bona fide media professionals, potentially providing a structured mechanism for recognised digital journalists and news organisations to access official sources and government information.
As listed in the Assembly agenda, the proposed framework would also include provisions for grievance redressal and appropriate action in cases involving the deliberate and repeated dissemination of false information, along with matters connected with or incidental to such activities.
The proposal comes at a time when digital news websites, social media-based news channels and other online platforms have become an increasingly significant part of the information ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Assembly Secretariat’s published agenda for Monday includes the proposed digital-news legislation among a wider set of Private Members’ Bills scheduled for introduction. The House is scheduled to meet in Srinagar on September 28.
The proposed Bill, if introduced, would place issues concerning digital media registration, recognition, accreditation, ownership transparency, editorial accountability, fact-checking and grievance redressal before the Legislative Assembly for consideration. The detailed provisions, scope of the proposed regulatory framework and the mechanism through which it would operate would become clearer during the legislative process and any subsequent debate on the Bill.