Sat May 10 14:23:13 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Chief Minister Orders Crackdown on Misinformation Amidst India-Pakistan Ceasefire
**Bengaluru, May 10, 2025** – Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered a state-wide crackdown on the spread of misinformation and fake news following a recent surge in online disinformation. The directive comes hours before a ceasefire was declared between India and Pakistan, ending days of heightened tension sparked by a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam.
In a high-level meeting with senior police officials, including Home Minister G. Parameshwara and IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge, Siddaramaiah emphasized the urgent need to curb the spread of false information across all media platforms. He instructed officials to implement rigorous fact-checking measures and take strong action against those responsible for disseminating fake news.
The meeting also focused on bolstering statewide security. The Chief Minister ordered increased security measures at crucial locations, including power plants, national landmarks, public spaces, and the coastal region. Police were instructed to conduct security drills at prominent locations and enhance vigilance against price gouging and illegal hoarding of essential commodities.
Siddaramaiah stressed the importance of strengthening intelligence networks and improving public safety at key transit points like bus stands and railway stations. He mandated 24/7 availability of fire and emergency services across all districts and called for strengthening the civil defense system through increased volunteer recruitment and enhanced training for emergency response. The Chief Minister also directed police to update the list of known criminals and those involved in communal violence, referencing the recent murder of Hindutva activist Suhas Shetty in Mangaluru. The heightened security measures extend to power stations and coastal areas, with a focus on preventing large gatherings.
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