Karnataka Government to Explore Licensing for YouTube News Channels Amid Concerns Over Unethical Practices
Hubballi, Karnataka, September 16, 2025 — The Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has announced it will consider a demand to introduce a licensing mechanism for YouTube and other digital news platforms, following allegations of unethical practices tarnishing the reputation of journalism. The proposal was put forth by the newly formed Electronic Media Journalists Association in a memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister during an event in Hubballi on Monday, September 15, 2025. The move has sparked a heated debate about press freedom, digital regulation, and the balance between accountability and censorship, as stakeholders weigh the implications of regulating online content creators.
The Memorandum and Its Demands
During the inauguration of the Electronic Media Journalists Association in Hubballi, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah received a memorandum from the association, which highlighted concerns about the proliferation of YouTube channels engaging in what it described as “unethical and unprofessional” practices. The association argued that such channels, operating without regulatory oversight, are damaging the credibility of journalism by spreading speculative, unverified, and defamatory content. “YouTube channels engaging in blackmail and low-level practices are a curse to society,” the memorandum stated, as quoted by The Economic Times. It demanded that licenses, similar to those required for television news channels, be made mandatory for digital news broadcasters, including YouTube channels, to curb misinformation and restore journalistic integrity.
The association pointed to specific instances, such as the recent controversy surrounding alleged secret burials in Karnataka’s Dharmasthala region, where YouTube channels amplified unverified claims, leading to public unrest and defamation lawsuits. A Kerala-based YouTuber was questioned by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for uploading videos supporting complainant C.N. Chinnaiah’s allegations of mass burials in the temple town, which were later deemed unsubstantiated. The family of Dharmasthala temple administrator and BJP MP Veerendra Heggade sought the removal of over 8,000 online posts, including 4,140 YouTube videos, citing “false, frivolous, reckless, and defamatory” content.
Chief Minister’s Response
Addressing the gathering in Hubballi, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah acknowledged the association’s concerns and promised to examine the demand for licensing digital news platforms. “They have said that licenses are needed to start news channels and broadcast news, but there is no license required for broadcasts on YouTube and digital media. We will look into this request,” he said, as reported by The Indian Express. He emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding freedom of expression, stating, “I have never done anything to undermine it, nor has our government.” However, he urged electronic media to refrain from broadcasting speculative or unverified information, which he said undermines public trust.
Siddaramaiah later reiterated his stance on X, writing, “YouTube channels engaging in blackmail and low-level practices are a curse to society, and the association has demanded that licensing be made mandatory for them to curb the menace. This demand will be examined.” His remarks reflect a cautious approach, balancing the need for regulation with the constitutional guarantee of free speech under Article 19(1)(a).
Background and Context
The demand for licensing YouTube news channels comes amid growing concerns about the unregulated nature of digital media in India. Unlike traditional television news channels, which require licenses from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, YouTube channels operate without such oversight. This has led to a surge in digital content creators, some of whom are accused of prioritizing sensationalism over accuracy to gain viewership and monetization.
The Dharmasthala controversy, which gained traction on YouTube and other platforms, exemplifies the issue. Videos amplifying unverified claims about secret burials led to questions about the authenticity of digital journalism. The SIT’s investigation revealed that many reports were speculative, prompting calls for stricter accountability. The Electronic Media Journalists Association argued that mandatory licensing would ensure adherence to journalistic ethics, such as those outlined by the Press Council of India, and prevent the spread of misinformation.
Reactions and Debate
The proposal has elicited mixed responses from stakeholders. The Electronic Media Journalists Association, representing traditional media professionals, views licensing as a necessary step to professionalize digital journalism. “Unregulated YouTube channels are tarnishing the reputation of our profession. Licensing will ensure accountability and protect the public from fake news,” said a spokesperson for the association.
However, digital content creators and free speech advocates have raised concerns about potential overreach. On X, several YouTubers criticized the proposal, arguing it could stifle independent voices. A post by @DigitalVoiceIndia read, “Licensing YouTube channels is a backdoor way to censor free speech. The government should focus on enforcing existing laws, not creating new barriers.” Others pointed out that YouTube already has Community Guidelines and policies to address misinformation, as outlined on its official website, which include removing content that poses a “serious risk of egregious harm” and reducing the visibility of borderline content.
Legal experts have also weighed in, noting the complexities of regulating digital platforms. “Imposing licenses on YouTube channels could infringe on freedom of expression unless carefully defined,” said Advocate Priya Gupta, a media law specialist. She suggested that any licensing framework must align with the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which already require digital news publishers to register with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The Editors Guild of India issued a statement urging caution, emphasizing that regulation should not suppress legitimate journalism. “While we acknowledge the harm caused by unethical practices, any licensing mechanism must be transparent and avoid stifling independent media,” the Guild said.
Political and Social Implications
The proposal has sparked a political debate, with opposition parties accusing the Congress-led Karnataka government of attempting to control digital media ahead of upcoming elections. BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia claimed, “This is a Congress tactic to silence critics on YouTube who expose their failures. Free speech is under threat.” In response, Karnataka’s Information and Publicity Minister defended the government, stating, “Our aim is to protect journalism’s credibility, not curb freedom. We will consult all stakeholders before deciding.”
On social media, opinions are polarized. Some users support the association’s demand, with one X post stating, “YouTube ‘journalists’ spread lies for clicks. Licensing is long overdue to clean up the mess.” Others, however, fear it could target dissenting voices, with a user writing, “First they license YouTube, then they control what we say. This is dangerous for democracy.”
Legal and Regulatory Context
The call for licensing aligns with existing regulations for digital media under the IT Rules, 2021, which mandate registration and adherence to a code of ethics for digital news publishers. YouTube channels producing news content are already subject to these rules, but enforcement has been inconsistent. Additionally, YouTube’s Community Guidelines prohibit content that violates copyright, promotes harassment, or spreads misinformation, with mechanisms like content removal and channel strikes in place.
The Dharmasthala case highlighted legal recourse, as the temple administration secured a Bengaluru court order to remove defamatory content. However, the ease of uploading content on YouTube and the platform’s global reach complicate enforcement, prompting calls for localized regulations like licensing.
Looking Ahead
The Karnataka government’s decision to explore licensing for YouTube news channels marks a significant step toward regulating digital media, but it raises complex questions about implementation and impact. The government has promised to consult stakeholders, including digital creators, traditional media, and legal experts, before finalizing any policy. A committee is expected to be formed to study the feasibility of licensing, with recommendations likely to influence national debates on digital regulation.
As the issue unfolds, the balance between curbing unethical practices and preserving free speech will be critical. For now, the Electronic Media Journalists Association’s memorandum has put YouTube’s role in journalism under the spotlight, urging a reevaluation of how digital platforms shape public discourse in India.
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