The Influence of Suspicious YouTube ‘News’ Channels on India’s 2024 Election

Several YouTube news channels in India are facing criticism for spreading disinformation and Islamophobia, particularly in the run-up to the national elections. These channels claim to offer news but often peddle conspiracy theories and attack opposition leaders while promoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). With millions of viewers and billions of views, these channels have a significant impact on shaping public opinion. Concerns about the spread of false information are rising, with studies showing that Indians place more trust in news from YouTube and WhatsApp over mainstream media outlets. These channels often stoke disinformation against Muslims and critics of Modi, perpetuating anti-Muslim sentiments. The spread of propaganda and divisive narratives is a growing concern as India heads towards the elections. Research has shown that these channels provide a platform for negative targeting of Modi’s critics and opposition leaders, serving as tools for the BJP’s social media messaging. By amplifying Islamophobic sentiments and using anti-Muslim tropes, these channels further fuel communal tensions and prejudices. The use of leading questions and provocative language in interviews with Muslims objectify and dehumanize individuals of the community. The influence of these channels on public perception and political discourse is significant, with the potential to shape election outcomes and contribute to the polarization of Indian society.

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