Tura: Following opposition from TUR (Thma U Rangli-Juki) and other civil societies in Khasi Hills, social activist Cherian Momin from Tura has voiced concerns over the Meghalaya Public Communication Policy 2024, calling it a violation of fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution and contrary to Supreme Court rulings.
“The core issue with this policy is the requirement for individuals and organizations disseminating news or content on social media in Meghalaya to register with the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR). Although it is presented as a measure to regulate media, maintain public order, and combat misinformation, the real impact is far more concerning. Forcing people and organizations to register and submit to state scrutiny undermines the freedoms of speech and expression protected by the Constitution of India. Moreover, this policy disproportionately affects marginalized communities, independent journalists, and social media activists, who are essential to Meghalaya’s democratic framework,” Momin stated.
Momin also referenced past Supreme Court judgments against similar restrictions on citizens’ rights.
Citing Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, Momin argued that the Meghalaya Public Communication Policy 2024 directly infringes on the right to free speech by imposing bureaucratic controls on individuals and organizations sharing news on social media.
“Requiring registration before sharing news creates an unreasonable and unconstitutional barrier to free speech. It fosters an atmosphere of fear and suspicion around independent journalism and online activism, discouraging citizens from dissenting, sharing vital information, or holding those in power accountable,” Momin added.
According to Momin, the policy effectively establishes a gatekeeping mechanism for information dissemination by allowing the state to decide who gets “accredited.” This sets a dangerous precedent, granting the state power to determine which voices are deemed legitimate.
Momin further emphasised the policy’s disproportionate impact on marginalized communities and independent journalists.
“While this policy threatens free speech broadly, it particularly hinders marginalized communities, activists, and independent journalists who rely on social media to highlight issues often overlooked by mainstream media. These groups already face significant challenges in accessing traditional media, and the new bureaucratic requirements only add more barriers,” Momin said, noting that social media is a vital platform for marginalized communities to raise awareness of the injustices they face.
Momin also pointed out that the policy conflicts with the Information Technology Act, 2000, which already provides a legal framework for regulating harmful content such as defamation, hate speech, and misinformation.
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“The DIPR’s accreditation requirement is redundant and creates a parallel system of regulation that conflicts with existing legal frameworks. While tackling misinformation is crucial, it should not come at the expense of fundamental rights. This policy not only violates freedom of speech but also threatens the core of a democratic society,” Momin stated, urging the government to withdraw the notification and ensure that any future policies fully respect constitutional rights.
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