Aakhir Tak – In Shorts
- The government has warned Wikipedia over biased content and inaccuracies.
- Allegations of control by a small group of editors.
- Delhi High Court had previously criticized Wikipedia.
Aakhir Tak – In Depth The Indian government has issued a notice to Wikipedia following multiple complaints regarding biased content and inaccuracies on the platform. According to sources, the government, in a letter to the online encyclopedia, pointed out that a small group of editors seems to have significant control over the content, affecting its neutrality.
The government has also raised the question of whether Wikipedia should be considered a “publisher” instead of an “intermediary.” So far, neither Wikipedia nor the government has released an official statement on this matter.
This scrutiny emerged nearly two months after the Delhi High Court criticized Wikipedia and hinted at a potential ban during a case filed by Asian News International (ANI), alleging inaccuracies and defamatory content on its Wikipedia page.
In the latest hearing on November 1, the court questioned Wikipedia’s claim of being a “free encyclopedia” and emphasized that, as an “intermediary,” Wikipedia should provide necessary information when required.
Wikipedia has faced increasing criticism for alleged bias and inaccuracies, notably amid the ongoing U.S. presidential elections. Elon Musk, the owner of X and a billionaire entrepreneur, accused Wikipedia of leaning toward far-left ideologies. He also urged the public to stop donating to Wikipedia, asserting that it is controlled by “far-left activists.”
