India: 'Paid news' scandal hits major
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The Indian Press Council is investigating allegations that newspapers sell story space to politicians
[2-https://www.theguardian.com/media/2010/jan/04/india-paid-news-scandal]
Paid news is a phenomenon in Indian media, that refers to the systematic engagement of mainstream media outlets in publishing favorable articles in exchange for payment.[1] [2] This type of news is typically sponsored by vested interest groups to accomplish their personal goals.
Throughout 2009 and even today, Press Council of India, had been receiving several complaints from citizens of India about the menace of paid news. Press Council of India compiled its report for next four years period and in 2013 presented its report. In 2013, the Press Council of India report was submitted to Parliament by the Standing Committee on Information Technology.
The report, which points out that self-regulation by India’s media has failed to stop the practice of paid news, has some eye-catching recommendations. It suggests a more-powerful regulator and stiffer penalties, including criminal charges, possibly leading to imprisonment, for those who accept payment for news.