J&K Government Working on Framework to Regulate Online, Social and Print Media

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is preparing a new policy framework aimed at regulating online news portals, social media platforms, and print media across the Union Territory.

The government disclosed this during the ongoing Jammu and Kashmir Assembly session while responding to a query raised by BJP विधायक R.S. Pathania. The administration also informed the House that between April 2025 and January 2026, it had issued a total of 28 official rebuttals against fake news and misinformation.

Policy Still at Consultation Stage

According to the government, the proposed policy has been drafted in response to the rapid growth of digital and social media. The draft, titled New Media Policy–2026, is currently under inter-departmental consultation and is yet to be finalised.

Officials stated that the policy aims to introduce appropriate provisions to establish a regulatory framework not only for digital and social media platforms but also for daily wage and contractual employees working in the media sector.

Digital Platforms to Come Under Regulation

The government further clarified that the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) presently does not have regulatory authority over websites and digital platforms such as online news channels and fact-check units. However, the upcoming policy is expected to bring these platforms within its ambit.

The government reiterated that the 28 rebuttals issued during the specified period were aimed at countering misinformation and misleading content circulated through various media sources.

Omar Abdullah Completes 16 Months as Chief Minister

It was also noted in the Assembly that Omar Abdullah has completed nearly 16 months in office during his second tenure as Chief Minister. He assumed charge on October 16, 2024. Jammu and Kashmir continues to function as a Union Territory.