The Centre is considering introducing criteria to distinguish practising digital journalists from social media influencers who identify themselves as journalists, amid growing official concern over the spread of videos from recent Gen Z-led protests in Delhi and other parts of the country, The Indian Express has reported.
Discussions on the proposal are at an early stage. Among the factors being considered are whether journalism is the primary source of income for an individual or digital platform, and whether a YouTube channel or news portal has a minimum level of following to qualify as a journalistic outlet.
The debate has gained momentum following protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) against the alleged NEET-UG paper leak in July. Influencers and independent content creators filmed demonstrations, raised slogans and circulated videos of police action against protesters. Similar footage emerged from Jantar Mantar and other locations during detentions in recent days, with some of those detained asserting that they were journalists being prevented from doing their work.
Officials are concerned that the growing number of influencers claiming journalistic credentials could create confusion and potentially affect the working conditions of established journalists. A source cited by The Indian Express said that influencers often carry identity cards to support their claims, making it difficult to distinguish between those engaged in journalism professionally and those producing social media content.
One proposal being discussed is to apply defined criteria when processing accreditation requests from digital media professionals. The argument within official circles is that carrying a camera or recording videos on a mobile phone should not, by itself, qualify someone for the additional access and privileges available to accredited journalists.
A source quoted in the report said that everyone retains their basic rights as citizens, while restrictions on filming or access to particular locations may be imposed in accordance with the law. However, the source added that additional access granted to journalists could be limited to those meeting clearly defined criteria.
The proliferation of short-form videos has emerged as a particular concern for authorities. Unlike conventional television and print coverage, reels recorded directly at protest sites have circulated rapidly across social media platforms, shaping public perceptions of the demonstrations and the police response.
Several videos went viral during the protests, creating an impression of widespread public anger against the government and allegations of heavy-handed policing. Footage of young protesters using abusive language also drew attention, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi referring to the issue in a video released after the CJP-led protests were called off.
According to sources cited in the report, videos circulated by student protesters and influencers also contributed to a negative international perception of the government’s handling of the demonstrations. Their reach, officials believe, exposed the limitations of conventional television coverage and prompted fresh deliberations on how the government should respond to the growing influence of digital content creators.
The proposed criteria, if introduced, could shape how digital journalists are recognised and accredited. However, the discussions remain preliminary, and no final decision on the parameters has been announced.
