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Newschecker
Profile Website

Newschecker

Organization: Newschecker
Applicant: Rajneil R Kamath
Assessor: Surekha Deepak

Background

Newschecker is an independent fact checking unit of of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd. A registered private company.

It has as a dedicated staff and publishes in English as well as in 9 other Indian languages and for Nepal and Bangladesh. This assessment is based on the English publication.

They choose claims that have an impact and cover all sides.

They have published more than the required number of fact checks required for compliance. Most of the stories they debunk have a recognisable impact. They have a clear non partisanship policy.

There is no evidence of any political influence on the stories selected or the way in which they are written.

Sources are linked and referenced. Stories from all sides of the spectrum are covered. There is no evidence of any  bias.

Newschecker is an independent fact checking unit of of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd. A registered private company. There is no evidence of any political affliation. The website clearly lists out the sources of funding.

The fact checks cover a variety of subjects, and most aspects of the topic. The process followed is well explained and carried out depending on the need of the story. All claims are checked using similar standards. 

The applicant mentions the sources used in the fact checking process clearly. There is no evidence that the sources that could influence  their findings. All sources are linked and referenced. The fact checks are replicable.

The website clearly shows the ownership. The organizational structure is clearly mentioned on the website. They use the same standards across all fact checks they publish.

The corrections policy is clearly listed on the website, with links to the IFCN complaints page.

Assessment Conclusion

The applicant is compliant with the criteria and may be accepted.

on 04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago)

Surekha Deepak assesses application as Compliant

A short summary in native publishing language

The language assessed is English

Section 1: Eligibility to be a signatory

To be eligible to be a signatory, applicants must meet these six criteria

  • 1.1 The applicant is a legally registered organization, or a distinct team or unit within a legally registered organization, and details of this are easily found on its website.
  • 1.2 The team, unit or organization is set up exclusively for the purpose of fact-checking.
  • 1.3 The applicant has published an average of at least one fact check a week over the course of the six months prior to the date of application. For applicants from countries with at least 5 or more verified signatories need to have at least a fact check a week over the twelve months of publishing track. Consult to factchecknet@poynter.org for confirmation.
  • 1.4 On average, at least 75% of the applicant’s fact checks focus on claims related to issues that, in the view of the IFCN, relate to or could have an impact on the welfare or well-being of individuals, the general public or society.
  • 1.5 The applicant’s editorial output is not, in the view of the IFCN, controlled by the state, a political party or politician.
  • 1.6 If the organization receives funding from local or foreign state or political sources, it provides a statement on its site setting out to the satisfaction of the IFCN, how it ensures its funders do not influence the findings of its reports.

Criteria 1.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please explain where on your website you set out information about your organization’s legal status and how this complies with criteria. Attach a link to the relevant page of your website.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Newschecker is an independent fact-checking initiative of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd. NC Media Networks is registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India as a private company and its Corporate Identification Number (CIN) is U92490DL2019PTC353700. All our details are available on the MCA website.

The Newschecker team works independently and exclusively on Newschecker and does not participate in any other activities of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd. Editorial decisions are taken by the Managing Editor. The Directors or Publisher(s) do not control the same, nor do they have anything to do with the editorial process.

Set policies and procedures are observed and practiced uniformly for all fact checks, and we do not take sides on any matter/issue. Public interest, relevance, virality and impact are the sole guiding principles the Newschecker team relies upon for the purpose of fact checking. Newschecker has fact checking operations in India, Nepal and Bangladesh.

These details are available to the public in the ‘About Us’ section of our website.

https://newschecker.in/about-us/

NC Media Network’s website showcases Newschecker as one of the initiatives which is an independent fact checking unit.

https://www.ncmn.in

Attachments

  1. Certificate of Incorporation
  2. Declaration of Independence of Newschecker
Files Attached
picture_as_pdf CERTIFICATE OF INCOR... (523 KB) picture_as_pdf Declaration of Indep... (990 KB)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Newschecker is an independent fact checking unit of of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd. A registered private company.

done_all 1.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 1.2
Proof you meet criteria
Please answer the following questions – (see notes in Guidelines for Application on how to answer)

 1. When and why was your fact-checking operation started?
 2. How many people work or volunteer in the organization and what are their roles?
 3. What different activities does your organization carry out?
 4. What are the goals of your fact-checking operation over the coming year?

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

1. When and why was your fact-checking operation started?

NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd was registered as a legal entity with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in August 2019 though we began publishing fact checks a few months earlier.

NC Media Networks was founded as a new media organization for a new India. Our aim is to inform, educate, engage and empower, and fact checking is an integral part of this mission.

With the advent of the internet in India, millions have come online for the very first time. Social media has become the dominant way for communication and news consumption, and in the process, it has also become a vehicle for misinformation. This is leading to polarization in Indian society, reducing trust in institutions and weakening the social fabric. In order for citizens to be alert and informed, they need access to authentic and trustworthy information. With this in mind, Newschecker was created as an independent initiative within the company.


2. How many people work or volunteer in the organization and what are their roles?

NC Media Networks has 3 directors, 22 employees, 1 consultant and 3 trainees. Of this, 22 people work full time independently and exclusively on Newschecker. Four of them work outside India.

Within the Newschecker team, we have a Managing Editor, Operations Manager, Editors, a Social Media Manager, a Fact Checking Conversational Interfaces Head and the remaining members are fact checkers who debunk misinformation in more than 9 languages. Details of the team are published on the website.

3. What different activities does your organization carry out?

NC Media Networks is engaged in these primary activities at the moment

  • Newschecker: An independent fact checking initiative in 9 Indian languages, English and also Nepali and Bangladeshi Bangla. We are 3rd party fact checkers for Sharechat, Facebook, WhatsApp and TikTok (outside India). We publish at least 9 fact checks a day in the languages and regions we operate in, keeping in mind public interest and virality. We also publish short fact check videos in vertical formats which get thousands of views. We undertake media literacy and other special campaigns to spread awareness about misinformation and teach people how they can spot misinformation themselves.

  • The Signal: The Signal is now housed under Frontpage Media Technologies Private Limited in which NC Media Networks Private Limited is a shareholder. The Signal is a daily newsletter covering business, economy and technology aimed at the young working professionals and future leaders.

  • The Sway: Operations at The Sway have been wrapped up, and it is pivoting towards becoming a new social media news property which is currently work-in-progress.

4. What are the goals of your fact-checking operation over the coming year?

Over the course of 2022, the goals of Newschecker are:

  • Increase coverage to include more Indian and foreign languages from the current 9 Indian languages and two international operations in South Asia
  • Increase focus on and prioritise multimedia formats of publishing fact checks (audio, video, newsletters)
  • Contribute to the regional alliance for combating misinformation
  • Scale up our work on Fact Checking On Demand As A Service (FCODAAS) through WhatsApp and other messaging apps
  • Build a community of citizens who share and distribute our work and send us viral claims to fact check; organize trainings and other community building activities
Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago


1. NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd started operations in 2019. The aim was to inform, educate, engage and empower, and fact checking. Newschecker was created as an independent initiative within the company, to give people access to authentic and trustworthy information.

2. NC Media Networks has 3 directors, 22 employees, 1 consultant and 3 trainees. Of this, 22 people work full time independently and exclusively on Newschecker. Four of them work outside India. 3. The parent organisation publishes Newscheckerin 9 Indian languages, English and also Nepali and Bangladeshi Bangla.

They are 3rd party fact checkers for Sharechat, Facebook, WhatsApp and TikTok (outside India). Publish fact checks every day also publish videos if the factcchecks and are involved in media literacy and other special campaigns to spread awareness about misinformation and teach people how they can spot misinformation themselves.

The parent company has shares in a company is involved with other publications ‘Signal’ and ‘Sway’

4. Newschecker wants to publish in more Indian and foreign languages, apart from the 9 Indian languages and two international operations.

Use multimedia formats of publishing fact checks (audio, video, newsletters). Contribute to the regional alliance for combating misinformation

Increase Fact Checking On Demand As A Service (FCODAAS) through WhatsApp and other messaging apps

Build a community of citizens and also organize trainings and other community

 


done_all 1.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 1.3
Proof you meet criteria
- The applicant has published an average of at least one fact check a week over the course of the six months prior to the date of application.
- For applicants from countries with at least 5 or more verified signatories need to have at least a fact check a week over the twelve months of publishing track.
- Consult to factchecknet@poynter.org for confirmation.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We have attached a document consisting of fact checks over the last 12 months. We publish at least 9 fact checks each day. Over the course of this year, we have prioritised claims related to health (especially Covid-19 & vaccination related), followed by those which directly impact human interest and welfare, followed by elections,  political propaganda and polarizing content, followed by messages related to scams and job hoaxes.

All our fact checks across languages are published on our website and archives are visible.

INDIA

NEPAL

https://nepal.newschecker.co/fact-check-ne


BANGLADESH 

https://bangladesh.newschecker.co/fact-checks-bn/

Files Attached
picture_as_pdf Newschecker articles... (40 KB)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago)

The applicant has published more than the required number of fact checks required for compliance and in multiple languages too.

done_all 1.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 1.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous three months. No additional information required.

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The applicant complies with this requirement. Most of the stories they debunk have an impact on society and are in the public interest. 

done_all 1.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 1.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please explain any commercial, financial and/or institutional relationship your organization has to the state, politicians or political parties in the country or countries you cover. Also explain funding or support received from foreign as well as local state or political actors over the previous financial year.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We do not have any commercial relationships with the Government(s), political parties and/or politicians. We do not enter into any kind of a commercial working relationship/contract with any of these entities for any unit under NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd.

Our non-partisanship policy can be found in our Code of Principles Statement

https://newschecker.in/code-of-principles/

All employees who join NC Media Networks, whether working on Newschecker or not, sign a Code of Conduct which also seeks to maintain their non-partisanship. (Attached)

Our latest financial statements are available on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs website under the CIN U92490DL2019PTC353700.

https://www.mca.gov.in 

Files Attached
picture_as_pdf NC Media Networks Of... (280 KB)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago)

There does not seem to be any political influence on the stories selected or the way in which they are written. Stories from all sides of the spectrum are covered. The fact checks do not carry a bias. They have stated they do not receive any financial support from the state, politicians, or political parties.

done_all 1.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 1.6
Proof you meet criteria
If you confirmed the organization receives funding from local or foreign state or political sources, provide a link to where on your website you set out how you ensure the editorial independence of your work.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Not applicable basis Criteria 1.5. We do not receive funding from the state, government, politicians or political parties. 

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago)

They have stated they not have any financial dependence on the state or political actors.

done_all 1.6 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Section 2: A commitment to Non-partisanship and Fairness

To be compliant on nonpartisanship and fairness, applicants must meet these five criteria

  • 2.1 The applicant fact-checks using the same high standards of evidence and judgement for equivalent claims regardless of who made the claim.
  • 2.2 The applicant does not unduly concentrate its fact-checking on any one side, considers the reach and importance of claims it selects to check and publishes a short statement on its website to set out how it selects claims to check.
  • 2.3 The applicant discloses in its fact checks relevant interests of the sources it quotes where the reader might reasonably conclude those interests could influence the accuracy of the evidence provided. It also discloses in its fact checks any commercial or other such relationships it has that a member of the public might reasonably conclude could influence the findings of the fact check.
  • 2.4 The applicant is not as an organization affiliated with nor declares or shows support for any party, any politician or political candidate, nor does it advocate for or against any policy positions on any issues save for transparency and accuracy in public debate.
  • 2.5 The applicant sets out its policy on non-partisanship for staff on its site. Save for the issues of accuracy and transparency, the applicant’s staff do not get involved in advocacy or publicise their views on policy issues the organization might fact check in such a way as might lead a reasonable member of the public to see the organization’s work as biased.

Criteria 2.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please share links to 10 fact checks published over the past year that you believe demonstrate your non-partisanship.
Please briefly explain how the fact checks selected show that (I) you use the same high standards of evidence for equivalent claims, (II) follow the same essential process for every fact check and (III) let the evidence dictate your conclusions.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Attached are links to 10 facts with explanation. We follow a uniform process and methodology and check with sources while fact checking all sides.

Files Attached
picture_as_pdf Claims with explanat... (65 KB)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The fact checks cover a variety of subjects. All claims are checked using similar standards regardless of which side makes the claim.

done_all 2.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 2.2
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to a place on your website where you explain how you select claims to check, explaining how you ensure you do not unduly concentrate your fact-checking on any one side, and how you consider the reach and importance of the claims you select to check.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We follow a very robust methodology of fact checking with multiple checks and balances in place. Details about the same can be found on our website here: https://newschecker.in/our-methodology/

We abide by a very strict code of principles, not just as an organisation but as individuals too. Our Code of Principles can be found here: https://newschecker.in/code-of-principles/

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The methodology followed for the selection of claims is clearly explained. The claims are selected based on a few factors. They say claims that impact health, public safety, law and order, propaganda and divisive content are prioritized.They also look out for statements made and released by governments, politicians, political parties, public personalities, institutions, news media and social media platforms.

done_all 2.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 2.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year. No additional information required.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

India

Nepal


Bangladesh

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

They use digital tools like Google Reverse Image Search, Reveye, Tineye, Bing, Exif, and google lens etc. They also contact sources and speak to them, where possible as part of the process.

done_all 2.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 2.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will assess compliance through a review of the fact checks published over the previous year. No additional information required.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

India

Nepal

Bangladesh

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

There is no evidence of the organisation’s affiliation to any political party.

done_all 2.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 2.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to a place on your website where you publish a statement setting out your policy on non-partisanship for staff and how it ensures the organization meets this criteria.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

All employees of NC Media Networks sign a Code of Conduct which is a part of the Offer for Employment and in effect throughout the period of employment. A copy of the same has been attached.

Our employees do not take any sides on an issue and do not advocate any cause. We maintain strict neutrality in our fact checks and on social media.

Our Code of Principles also highlights our non-partisanship policy.

https://newschecker.in/code-of-principles/

Files Attached
picture_as_pdf NC Media Networks Of... (280 KB)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The applicant states its non partisan policy clearly. Employees are expected to avoid public expression or demonstration of their political views. They also need to sign a letter agreeing to the non partisanship policy.

done_all 2.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Section 3: A commitment to Standards and Transparency of Sources

To be compliant on sources, applicants must meet these four criteria

  • 3.1 The applicant identifies the source of all significant evidence used in their fact checks, providing relevant links where the source is available online, in such a way that users can replicate their work if they wish. In cases where identifying the source would compromise the source’s personal security, the applicant provides as much detail as compatible with the source’s safety.
  • 3.2 The applicant uses the best available primary, not secondary, sources of evidence wherever suitable primary sources are available. Where suitable primary sources are not available, the applicant explains the use of a secondary source.
  • 3.3 The applicant checks all key elements of claims against more than one named source of evidence save where the one source is the only source relevant on the topic.
  • 3.4 The applicant identifies in its fact checks the relevant interests of the sources it uses where the reader might reasonably conclude those interests could influence the accuracy of the evidence provided.

Criteria 3.1
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We have a robust and uniform methodology to conduct fact checks. It can be found on our website here: https://newschecker.in/our-methodology/

In every fact check that we publish, through the body of the fact check we highlight our sources along with the details at the end of the fact check. An example can be seen here:

https://newschecker.in/fact-check/viral/viral-message-on-omicron-attributed-to-kiran-mazumdar-shaw-widely-shared-out-of-context

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The applicant identifies the sources and evidence in the claims debunked. Sources are linked and referenced. The fact checks are replicable.

done_all 3.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 3.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The fact checked stories use primary sources where possible, media reports and digital sources in the process of fact checking. Relevant sources are hyperlinked.

done_all 3.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 3.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The applicant’s fact checks are compliant with this requirement they identify the sources and often use multiple sources.

done_all 3.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 3.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the applicant’s use of sources in a randomised sample of its fact checks to assess compliance. No additional evidence is required.

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The sources are clearly identified so the reader can conclude if there is any influence of a source on the story.

done_all 3.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Section 4: A commitment to Transparency of Funding & Organization

To be compliant on funding and organization, applicants must meet these five criteria

  • 4.1 Applicants that are independent organizations have a page on their website detailing each source of funding accounting for 5% or more of total revenue for its previous financial year. This page also sets out the legal form in which the organization is registered (e.g. as a non-profit, as a company etc).
  • 4.2 Applicants that are the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization make a statement on ownership.
  • 4.3 A statement on the applicant’s website sets out the applicant’s organizational structure and makes clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.
  • 4.4 A page on the applicant’s website details the professional biography of all those who, according to the organizational structure and play a significant part in its editorial output.
  • 4.5 The applicant provides easy means on its website and/or via social media for users to communicate with the editorial team.

Criteria 4.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please confirm whether you are an ‘independent organization’
or ‘the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization’ and share proof of this organizational status.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Newschecker is an independent fact-checking initiative and a unit of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd, headquartered in Delhi, India. NC Media Networks is registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs(MCA), Government of India as a private company and its Corporate Identification Number (CIN) is U92490DL2019PTC353700. All our details, including our latest financial returns, are available on the MCA website. NC Media Networks is also recognised as a startup under the Startup India Program of the Indian government's Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.

Newschecker fact checks in English, Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Tamil, Gujarati, Punjabi, Urdu, Bhojpuri, and Malayalam in India; in Nepali and English in Nepal and in Bengali and English in Bangladesh

More details can be found here: https://newschecker.in/about-us/

Attachments

  1. Certificate of Incorporation
  2. Declaration of Independence of Newschecker
Files Attached
picture_as_pdf CERTIFICATE OF INCOR... (523 KB)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Factchecker is a part of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd. They are a dedicated unit that works on fact checking. They do third party fact-checker for a few social media and messaging platforms and receive a fee for our services but do not accept funding or work with politicians/political parties and/or organizations linked to political parties. They have also received a COVID 19 Flash Grant from IFCN to scale our COVID 19 fact-checking work. They have listed out the others who contributed to more than 5 % of their income.

done_all 4.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 4.2
Proof you meet criteria
If your organization is an “independent organization”, please share a link to the page on your website where you detail your funding and indicate the legal form in which the organization is registered (e.g. as a non-profit, as a company etc).
If your organization is “the fact-checking section or unit of a media house or other parent organization”, please share a link to the statement on your website about your ownership.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Details regarding our funding and ownership can be found here:

https://newschecker.in/about-us/

Additionally, NC Media Networks is registered with the CIN U92490DL2019PTC353700 and details of ownership, directors and financial statements can be found on https://www.mca.gov.in. 

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The applicant is compliant with this requirement. The website clearly shows the ownership.

done_all 4.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 4.3
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you set out your organizational structure, making clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd was founded by Rajneil Rajnath Kamath. He is a full-time director and looks after the day-to-day administration and management, technology products, new initiatives and programs of the company and does not participate in editorial decisions of Newschecker.

Anirudh Balakrishnan and Rajnath Kamath are the other two directors of the NC Media Networks.

Editorial control and decisions reside with our Managing Editor, Ruby Dhingra, who is assisted by a team of editors and project heads. Fact Checkers identify claims in their respective languages and share it with the team explaining the evidence supporting or countering any given claim, its impact and why it should be fact checked. Daily morning and evening meetings are conducted to this effect, led by the Managing Editor and attended by the all editors and fact checkers to discuss all claims found by the team via social media monitoring as well as those received from our readers through email, WhatsApp tip line or our social media accounts.

Details of our team and structure can be found here:

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The oraganisational structure is clearly mentioned on the website.

done_all 4.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 4.4
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you set out the professional biographies of those who play a significant part in your organization’s editorial output.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The role of each member of the team is mentioned on these pages:

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The biographies of the fact checking team is available on the website.

done_all 4.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 4.5
Proof you meet criteria
Please share a link to where on your website you encourage users to communicate with your editorial team.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We encourage and value reader feedback, comments and complaints. At the end of every fact check, we encourage readers to contact us by giving our WhatsApp number, email ID and Contact Us page link: https://newschecker.in/contact-us/

The same is mentioned on the Newschecker website footer.

Additionally, every page of our website has a floating “+” button where users can submit a claim to fact check, a complaint or feedback. It can be seen in the bottom right corner in the following screenshots (attached).

In addition to all this, each team members public social media accounts are mentioned along with their bio on the website in the “Our Team” section with hyperlinks that lead to their twitter profiles through which they can be contacted

https://newschecker.in/our-team/

At the end of every article, a bio of the author of the article is also published which has further links to at least one of the public social media accounts provided by the author for readers to write to them (Screenshot attached). 

Files Attached
Author Bio.png (157 KB) Contact Us 1.jpeg (108 KB) Contact Us 2.jpeg (141 KB)
Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Contact details are clearly provided on the website.

done_all 4.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Section 5: A commitment to Standards and Transparency of Methodology

To be compliant on methodology, applicants must meet these six criteria

  • 5.1 The applicant publishes on its website a statement about the methodology it uses to select, research, write and publish its fact checks.
  • 5.2 The applicant selects claims to check based primarily on the reach and importance of the claims, and where possible explains the reason for choosing the claim to check.
  • 5.3 The applicant sets out in its fact checks relevant evidence that appears to support the claim as well as relevant evidence that appears to undermine it.
  • 5.4 The applicant in its fact checks assesses the merits of the evidence found using the same high standards applied to evidence on equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim.
  • 5.5 The applicant seeks where possible to contact those who made the claim to seek supporting evidence, noting that (I) this is often not possible with online claims, (II) if the person who makes the claim fails to reply in a timely way this should not impede the fact check, (III) if a speaker adds caveats to the claim, the fact-checker should be free to continue with checking the original claim, (IV) fact-checkers may not wish to contact the person who made the claim for safety or other legitimate reasons.
  • 5.6 The applicant encourages users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable.

Criteria 5.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a link to the statement on your website that explains the methodology you use to select, research, write and publish your fact checks.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Newschecker has a robust and consistent methodology for all fact checks. More details can be found here: https://newschecker.in/our-methodology/

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The methodology is clearly explained on the website.

done_all 5.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 5.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The claims are selected without any bias. They prioritise claims on health, public safety, law and order, propaganda and divisive content, follow social media, statements by public figures, and claims sent by readers.

done_all 5.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 5.3
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The applicant explains the claims and the sources for the claim. The fact checks provide explanations for the evidence­ they use to counter the claim.

done_all 5.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 5.4
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

They have a process  where claims are fact checked and all evidence is considered and are of the same standard.

done_all 5.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 5.5
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the methodology used in a randomised sample of your fact checks to assess compliance with these criteria. No additional evidence is required.

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Where possible they have contacted people who have made the claim unless the claims are on line.

done_all 5.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 5.6
Proof you meet criteria
Please describe how you encourage users to send in claims to check, while making it clear what readers can legitimately expect will be fact-checked and what isn’t fact-checkable. Include links where appropriate. If you do not allow this, explain why.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We encourage and value claims from readers as well as feedback, comments and complaints. At the end of every fact check, we encourage readers to contact us by giving our WhatsApp tipline number, email ID and Contact Us page link (Screenshot attached). 

The same is mentioned on the Newschecker website footer (Screenshot attached).

Additionally, every page of our website has a floating “+” button where users can submit a claim to fact check, a complaint or feedback as attached.

We also have a WhatsApp tipline number (+91 9999499044), where we offer Fact-Checking On-Demand as a free service and an email ID (checkthis@newschecker.in) where readers can mail us anything they want us to fact check. 

We do more than 20 unique fact checks daily via queries sent to us by WhatsApp users on the tip line number mentioned above and also include that information in the body of related fact check articles. Here are some screenshots of the conversation through the tipline.

Users can also reach out to us on our social media handles:

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Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The website gives details for readers to send in claims to check. They have a helpline number, a whatsapp contact as well as social media handles and email for this.

done_all 5.6 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Section 6: A commitment to an Open & Honest Corrections Policy

To be compliant on corrections policy, applicants must meet these five criteria

  • 6.1 The applicant has a corrections or complaints policy that is easily visible and accessible on the organization’s website or frequently referenced in broadcasts.
  • 6.2 The policy sets out clear definitions of what it does and does not cover, how major mistakes, especially those requiring revised conclusions of a fact check, are handled, and the fact that some complaints may justify no response. This policy is adhered to scrupulously.
  • 6.3 Where credible evidence is provided that the applicant has made a mistake worthy of correction, the applicant makes a correction openly and transparently, seeking as far as possible to ensure that users of the original see the correction and the corrected version.
  • 6.4 The applicant, if an existing signatory, should either on its corrections/complaints page or on the page where it declares itself an IFCN signatory inform users that if they believe the signatory is violating the IFCN Code, they may inform the IFCN, with a link to the IFCN site.
  • 6.5 If the applicant is the fact-checking unit of a media company, it is a requirement of signatory status that the parent media company has and adheres to an open and honest corrections policy.

Criteria 6.1
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a link to where you publish on your website your corrections or complaints policy. If you are primarily a broadcaster, please provide evidence you frequently reference your corrections policy in broadcasts.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Our Complaints and Correction Policy can be found here

https://newschecker.in/corrections-and-complaints

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The corrections policy is clearly listed on the website.

done_all 6.1 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 6.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the corrections policy to verify it meets critera. No additional information needed.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Our Complaints and Correction Policy can be found here

https://newschecker.in/corrections-and-complaints

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

The policy clearly states the process to be taken up if there are any mistakes. They also explain the steps to be followed and the way they will go about it.

done_all 6.2 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 6.3
Proof you meet criteria
Please provide a short statement about how the policy was adhered to over the previous year (or six months if this is the first application) including evidence of two examples of the responses provided by the applicant to a correction request over the previous year. Where no correction request has been made in the previous year, you must state this in your application, which will be publicly available in the assessment if your application is successful.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

In the last 12 months, we have only had 1 correction. This was pointed out to us by the admin of a Facebook page called Brave India. We took note of this immediately and appropriate changes were made after an internal investigation. The portal had written to us about how the scope of their article only included the reaction of Karnataka's CM to an alleged comment made by the Kerala CM. The alleged statement by Kerala CM was fabricated and hence found its way in our article. Once they pointed out that the details in the article also clarified what we had found in our fact-check, the embedded post of the platform was removed from the copy and a correction was issued and added at the end of the copy a screenshot of which is provided (Attached). You can also read the full article here: https://newschecker.in/ml/fact-check-ml/karnataka-border-villages 

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Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

There is a link to the IFCN correction page.

done_all 6.3 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 6.4
Proof you meet criteria
If you are an existing signatory, please provide a link to show where on your site you inform users that if they believe you are violating the IFCN Code, they may inform the IFCN of this, with a link to the complaints page on the IFCN site.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

We mention this in our Corrections and Complaints page, as well as on the Complaints form page.

https://newschecker.in/corrections-and-complaints

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

There is a link to the IFCN correction page

done_all 6.4 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.

Criteria 6.5
Proof you meet criteria
If you are the fact-checking unit of a media company, please provide a link to the parent media company’s honest and open corrections policy and provide evidence that it adheres to this.

Newschecker
12-Feb-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

NC Media Network's first initiative was Newschecker, and it is set up as an independent team under the legal entity that is required as per the IFCN Code of Principles.

There is a Correction clause to our Terms and Conditions which can be found here: https://www.ncmn.in/terms-and-conditions

Surekha Deepak Assessor
04-Mar-2022 (2 years ago) Updated: 2 years ago

Not applicable. The parent company has interests in publishing a business news letter and a marketing agency.

done_all 6.5 marked as Compliant by Surekha Deepak.