Framing the initiative as part of a broader “people’s movement” against narcotics, cybercrime, and online harassment, the chief minister said the government was determined to dismantle fake propaganda networks.
Published Sep 27, 2025 | 8:00 AM ⚊ Updated Sep 27, 2025 | 8:00 AM
Social media. Representative Image. (iStock)
Synopsis: The Andhra Pradesh government formed a Group of Ministers to introduce a new bill to curb social media abuse, citing concerns that existing laws are inadequate to protect victims from online vitriol and misinformation. Home Minister V Anita noted that cybercriminals — often hiding behind anonymity — are inciting hate and disturbing public harmony.
The Andhra Pradesh government has set in motion a plan to introduce a new bill to curb social media abuse, citing concerns that existing laws are inadequate to protect victims from online vitriol and misinformation.
In early September 2025, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu formed a Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Home Minister Vangalapudi Anita to draft recommendations for the proposed legislation.
The four-member GoM includes Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar, Information & Public Relations Minister Kolusu Parthasarathi, and Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav. Its mandate is to frame a bill targeting the spread of false information and abusive content against individuals and public figures on digital platforms.
During recent Assembly discussions, both Naidu and Anita pushed for tough measures against those misusing social media to spread hate campaigns, attack women, and malign leaders. Their call follows a surge in malicious propaganda and personal attacks on political figures, including derogatory posts about Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, and their families.
Anita noted that cybercriminals — often hiding behind anonymity — are inciting hate and disturbing public harmony.
Naidu, citing a Karnataka High Court judgement that upheld the need for controls on digital content, insisted that abusers must face strict legal consequences. He accused the previous YSRCP government of encouraging online smear campaigns.
The GoM will recommend amendments to existing laws to better tackle digital and financial crimes. This includes exposing anonymous networks running fake news and orchestrating hate campaigns. Anita reaffirmed that the government’s approach would be rooted in law, not political vendetta, promising accountability through due process.
At present, the GoM is in its early stages, seeking inputs from stakeholders. It is prioritising proposals for platform accountability and mechanisms to address high-profile abuse cases. No formal enforcement actions — such as arrests or content takedowns — have been initiated yet.
Anita added that the panel has also been tasked with addressing financial and cyber offences. While overall crime rates have declined statewide, she said cybercrimes continue to pose a persistent challenge.
Framing the initiative as part of a broader “people’s movement” against narcotics, cybercrime, and online harassment, Naidu said the government was determined to dismantle fake propaganda networks — wherever their operators may be.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil.)
