Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Indian government has issued a notice to Wikipedia after receiving multiple complaints of bias and inaccuracies on the popular online platform. Sources indicate that in a formal communication, the Centre raised concerns about the potential influence of a select group of editors who appear to wield significant control over content. This influence, the government argues, may impact Wikipedia’s objectivity.
In its notice, the government has questioned whether Wikipedia should continue to be regarded as an “intermediary” or if it should be reclassified as a “publisher” due to the level of control exerted by these editors.
Neither the government nor Wikipedia has released an official statement following this move. Wikipedia operates as a volunteer-driven platform where users can create and edit articles on various topics, from current affairs to historical content.
This scrutiny follows a recent Delhi High Court hearing involving Wikipedia, which took place in connection with a case brought by Asian News International (ANI). ANI alleged inaccuracies and defamatory material on its Wikipedia page, prompting the court to question Wikipedia’s claim as a “free encyclopedia.” The court suggested that Wikipedia, in its role as an “intermediary,” should be more accountable and transparent when such issues are raised.
Wikipedia has been under growing criticism for alleged ideological bias and content accuracy, particularly in the context of the ongoing US presidential elections. Recently, tech billionaire Elon Musk publicly accused Wikipedia of aligning with “far-left activists” and called for the public to cease donations to the platform.
