Misinformation is a national security issue

AS we celebrate our 68th year of independence and reflect proudly on the progress our nation has made, we must also confront an uncomfortable reality: While we are free from colonial powers, we are not yet fully free from another force that threatens our unity and resilience: the force of misinformation.

Social media has revolutionised the way we connect, share, and learn. But the very platforms that empower us also expose us to manipulation. Algorithms often prioritise speed and sensationalism over accuracy, meaning false or misleading content can spread much faster than verified information. This is not merely a matter of careless rumours. Misinformation, when amplified across millions of screens, can distort public understanding, incite fear, and weaken trust in national institutions.