Organization: Newschecker
Applicant: Rajneil R Kamath
Assessor: Kanchan Kaur
Background
The applicant is a distinct unit of a legally registered media company. The unit has been set up exclusively for the purpose of fact checking and aims towards promoting fact checking.
The applicant has been publishing fact checks regularly over the past year, averaging more than one fact check a week. Most of these relate to claims that are about issues in the public interest. The applicant has stated that it has received no support, financial or otherwise from the state, any politician or political party.
The applicant uses the same standards of evidence and judgement for equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim. It considers the reach and importance of the claims it selects to check. The applicant clearly states the sources it uses in its fact checks. As an organization, it is not affiliated to, nor shows any support to any political party. It does not advocate policy positions, either. The applicant sets out its non-partisan policy for its staff on its website. It includes a demand for non-partisanship from its staff in its offer letters to them, a copy of which has been supplied.
The applicant clearly identifies all sources of evidence used in their fact checks so that users can easily replicate their work and can understand if the sources have any interests that could influence the accuracy of the fact check. It uses primary sources in the main, but does refer to secondary sources now and then. The applicant largely checks all key claims against more than one source of evidence.
The organisation has supplied a legal form of incorporation of its parent body. It has stated that it is an independent unit of a media organization and has a page on its website that details sources of funding. Details of the organisational structure on the website make it clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised. Professional biographies of the team are published and users are encouraged to contact the editorial team.
The applicant explains how it goes about fact checking--basis for selecting claims, consequent investigations and checks, as well as arriving at decisions to publish the fact checks. The applicant, in its fact checks puts out relevant evidence that both supports the claim as well as that seems to undermine it. It applies the same standards to assess equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim. And, where possible, the applicant seeks out those who made the claims for supporting evidence. The applicant actively encourages users to send it claims.
The applicant has a clear corrections and complaints policy that is easily accessible on its website and that explains how major mistakes are handled. It invites users to point out any errors in their work. The applicant has made corrections openly and transparently. Readers can see both versions.
The applicant, on its website, under its correction policy states that it is a signatory of the IFCN code and provides a link to the complaints page on the IFCN website. Its parent body has an open corrections policy, too.
Assessment Conclusion
The application may be accepted.
Kanchan Kaur assesses application as Compliant
A short summary in native publishing language
The main publishing language 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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Newschecker.in is an independent fact-checking initiative of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd. NC Media Networks is registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India as a private company and has the Corporate Identification Number (CIN) U92490DL2019PTC353700. All our details are available on the MCA website (http://www.mca.gov.in/mcafoportal/viewCompanyMasterData.do)
The Newschecker team works independently and exclusively on Newschecker and does not participate in other activities of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd. Editorial decisions are taken by the Editors and Operations Manager and the Directors do not control the same.
There are set policies and procedures, which are observed and practiced uniformly for all fact checks, and do not take sides on any matter/issue. Public interest, virality and impact are the sole guiding principles the Newschecker team uses for fact checking.
We have also shared these details in the About Us page on our website.
https://newschecker.in/about-us/
We have also mentioned this in our NC Media Network’s website that Newschecker is an independent fact checking unit.
Attachments
1. Certificate of Incorporation
2. Declaration of Independence of Newschecker
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant is a distinct unit of a legally registered media company. Details of this are easily found on its website.
done_all 1.1 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
1. When and why was your fact-checking operation started?
NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd is registered as a legal entity with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in August 2019 though we began publishing fact checks since March 2019 itself.
NC Media networks was founded to be a new media organisation for a new India. It is our aim 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 of people have come online for the very first time. Social media has become the dominant way for communication and news consumption, and has also become a vehicle for misinformation. This is leading to polarisation, reducing trust in institutions and weakening social fabric. An informed and alert citizenry needs authentic and trustworthy information.
This led to the creation of Newschecker as an independent initiative.
2. How many people work or volunteer in the organization and what are their roles?
NC Media Networks has 3 directors, 15 employees and 1 consultant. Of this, 13 people work full time independently and exclusively on Newschecker. We also have 8 interns working with us for a 3 month period which will end in February. The other 2 employees and the consultant work on a daily newsletter.
Within the Newschecker team, we have an Operations Manager, Editor, Social Media Manager, Fact Checking Conversational Interfaces Head and the rest are fact checkers for their respective languages.
More details of the team are published on the website.
https://newschecker.in/our-team/
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 8 Indian languages and English. We are also 3rd party fact checkers for Sharechat and are currently doing a pilot program with WhatsApp.
We publish at least 9 fact checks a day in the 8 languages we operate in keeping in mind public interest and virality.
We publish short fact check videos in vertical formats which get thousands of views.
We undertake special campaigns to spread awareness about misinformation and how people can undertake spot fact checks.
- The Signal: The Signal is a daily newsletter.
4. What are the goals of your fact-checking operation over the coming year?
Over the course of 2021, the goals of Newschecker are:
- To increase coverage for more Indian and foreign languages from the current 9
- Pivot to more multimedia formats of publishing fact checks
- Increase reach and distribution of fact checks by working with news aggregators, social media platforms and telcos.
- Build assistive technologies to improve efficiency of the fact checking process
- Continue our work on Fact Checking On Demand As A Service (FCODAAS) through WhatsApp
- Build a community of citizens who share and distribute our work and also send us claims to fact check that are going viral: organize trainings and other community building activities
- Establish the Misinformation Combat Alliance and bring relevant stakeholders onboard to make the program a success.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The unit has been set up exclusively for the purpose of fact checking. It has clearly stated its aims and plans, all of which have to do with promoting fact checking.
done_all 1.2 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 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, followed by those which directly impact human welfare and interest, followed by 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.
2. https://newschecker.in/fact-check/edited-image-of-rana-ayyub-on-cnn-shared-with-false-claim/
3. https://hindi.newschecker.in/fact-check/rahul-gandhi-did-not-catch-the-policeman-by-collar/
6. https://hindi.newschecker.in/coronavirus/is-pfizer-covid-vaccine-made-in-china/
7. https://hindi.newschecker.in/fact-check/india-today-misquotes-rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat/
8. https://newschecker.in/fact-check/times-now-aaj-tak-misleading-report-on-galwan-valley/
9. https://hindi.newschecker.in/fact-check/pm-modi-jashodaben-viral-wedding-picture-is-fake-news/
11 https://newschecker.in/daily-reads/prime-minister-expressed-gratitue/
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant has been publishing fact checks regularly over the past year, averaging more than one fact check a week.
done_all 1.3 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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.
Newschecker
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Most of the fact checks published by the applicant relate to claims that are regarding issues in the public interest.
done_all 1.4 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
We do not have any commercial relationships with the Government(s), political parties and politicians. We do not enter into any kind of commercial working relationship/contract from 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
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant has stated that it has received no support, financial or otherwise from the state, any politician or political party.
done_all 1.5 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Not applicable basis Criteria 1.5. We do not receive funding from state, government, politicians or political parties.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
This is not applicable because in the earlier criteria it has stated that it receives no funding from any such sources.
done_all 1.6 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Here are links to 10 facts. We follow a uniform process and methodology and check with sources while fact checking all sides.
1. https://hindi.newschecker.in/coronavirus/is-pfizer-covid-vaccine-made-in-china/
5. https://newschecker.in/fact-check/edited-image-of-rana-ayyub-on-cnn-shared-with-false-claim/
6. https://hindi.newschecker.in/fact-check/india-today-misquotes-rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat/
7. https://hindi.newschecker.in/fact-check/rahul-gandhi-did-not-catch-the-policeman-by-collar/
8. https://hindi.newschecker.in/fact-check/pm-modi-jashodaben-viral-wedding-picture-is-fake-news/
9. https://newschecker.in/fact-check/times-now-aaj-tak-misleading-report-on-galwan-valley/
Attachments
Explanation of Fact Checks
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant uses the same standards of evidence and judgement for equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim.
done_all 2.1 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 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 below
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant does not concentrate on anyone side; it considers the reach and importance of the claims it selects to check. It also publishes a statement to this effect on its website.
done_all 2.2 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
English: https://newschecker.in/
Hindi: https://hindi.newschecker.in/
Marathi: https://marathi.newschecker.in/
Punjabi: https://punjabi.newschecker.in/
Gujarati: https://gujarati.newschecker.in/
Tamil: https://tamil.newschecker.in/
Urdu: https://urdu.newschecker.in/
Bengali: https://bengali.newschecker.in/
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant, in its fact checks clearly states the sources it uses in its fact checks, thereby indicating to the readers if the sources have any relevant interests and if these interests could influence the fact check.
done_all 2.3 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
English: https://newschecker.in/
Hindi: https://hindi.newschecker.in/
Marathi: https://marathi.newschecker.in/
Punjabi: https://punjabi.newschecker.in/
Gujarati: https://gujarati.newschecker.in/
Tamil: https://tamil.newschecker.in/
Urdu: https://urdu.newschecker.in/
Bengali: https://bengali.newschecker.in/
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant as an organisation is not affiliated to, nor shows any support to any political party. It does not advocate policy positions, either.
done_all 2.4 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 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 through their 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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant sets out its non-partisan policy for its staff on its website. It includes this demand for non-partisanship from its staff in its offer letters to them, a copy of which has been supplied.
done_all 2.5 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 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/old-image-of-mamata-banerjee-with-amit-shah-goes-viral-with-misleading-claims/
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant clearly identifies all sources of evidence used in their fact checks. Users can easily replicate their work.
done_all 3.1 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant uses primary sources in the main, but does refer to secondary sources now and then.
done_all 3.2 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant largely checks all key claims against more than one source of evidence.
done_all 3.3 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant clearly identifies the sources it uses, thereby making it clear to the reader if the sources have any relevant interests, and if these interests could influence the accuracy of the information provided.
done_all 3.4 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Newschecker.in is an independent fact-checking initiative and unit of NC Media Networks Pvt Ltd, headquartered in Delhi. NC Media Networks is registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India as a private company and has the Corporate Identification Number (CIN) 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 Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
Newschecker facts checks in Hindi, Marathi, Bangla, Tamil, Gujarati, Punjabi, Urdu, Bhojpuri and English.
More details can be found here:
https://newschecker.in/about-us/
Attachments
1. Certificate of Incorporation
2. Declaration of Independence of Newschecker
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The organisation has supplied a legal form of incorporation of its parent body. It has stated that it is a unit of a media organisation, but works independently of the organisation. It has a page on its website that details sources of funding.
done_all 4.1 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant is a unit of a media house and has said so on its website, with all details.
done_all 4.2 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 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 decisions are taken by our Editor J P Tripathi and Operations Manager Preeti Chauhan. Individual language fact checkers identify claims and share it with the team explaining the truth, its impact and why it should be fact checked
Details of our team and structure can be found here: https://newschecker.in/our-team/
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Details of the organisational structure are available on the website. The page makes it clear how and by whom editorial control is exercised.
done_all 4.3 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The role of each member of the team is mentioned on this page: https://newschecker.in/our-team/
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
A page on the applicant's website details the professional biographies of the team.
done_all 4.4 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Users can easily contact the editorial team; details are available on its website.
done_all 4.5 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Newschecker has a robust and consistent methodology for all fact checks. More details can be found here: https://newschecker.in/our-methodology/
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant publishes on its website a detailed statement on how it goes about fact checking--basis for selecting claims, consequent investigations and checks as well as arriving at decisions to publish the fact checks.
done_all 5.1 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant selects claims to check mainly on the importance and reach of the claims.
done_all 5.2 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant, in its fact checks puts out relevant evidence that both supports the claim as well as that seems to undermine it.
done_all 5.3 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant applies the same standards to assess equivalent claims, regardless of who made the claim.
done_all 5.4 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Where possible, the applicant seeks out those who made the claims for supporting evidence.
done_all 5.5 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 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 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.
We also have a WhatsApp number +91 9999499044 where we offer Fact Checking On Demand as a free service and also have an email ID checkthis@newschecker.in where readers can mail us anything to fact check. We do more than 15 unique fact checks via this number each day that users on WhatsApp send us.
Users can also reach out to us on our social media handles:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newscheckerin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/newscheckerin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newschecker.in/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/newschecker/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/newscheckerin
Sharechat: https://b.sharechat.com/xw8pnMSJX4
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant actively encourages users to send it claims. It has a WhatsApp number, a Contact page, an email id, apart from a link at every page.
done_all 5.6 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Our Complaints and Correction Policy can be found here
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant has a clear corrections and complaints policy that is easily accessible on its website.
done_all 6.1 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
Criteria 6.2
Proof you meet criteria
The assessor will review the corrections policy to verify it meets critera. No additional information needed.
Newschecker
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Our Complaints and Correction Policy can be found here
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant sets out a clear corrections policy that explains how major mistakes are handled. It invites users to point out any errors in their work.
done_all 6.2 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
In the last 12 months, we have had only 1 correction. This was pointed out to us on social media and we made the requisite corrections and undertook assessment internally to understand why this error occurred.
Links here: https://hindi.newschecker.in/fact-check/how-two-monks-in-palghar-become-victims-of-fake-news/
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant has provided an example of how a request for correction was handled. The applicant has made the correction openly and transparently. Readers can see both versions.
done_all 6.3 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
We mention this in our Corrections and Complaints page, as well as on the Complaints form page.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
The applicant, on its website, under its correction policy states that it is a signatory of the IFCN code and provides a link to the complaints page on the IFCN website.
done_all 6.4 marked as Compliant by Kanchan Kaur.
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
05-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Not applicable
Newschecker
25-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Not applicable.
The NC in NC Media Networks stands for News Checker (NC). Our first initiative was Newschecker, and it is setup as an independent team under the legal entity that is required as per IFCN Code of Principles. Our 2nd product is The Signal which is a curated newsletter. The Signal works differently from the Newschecker team and only curates news, and does no original reporting. We do not publish anything else.
We have, however, added a Correction clause to our Terms and Conditions which can be found here: https://www.ncmn.in/terms-and-conditions
We have never been asked for corrections on The Signal since we don't do original reportage.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
20-Jan-2021 (3 years ago) Updated: 3 years ago
Though the applicant is a unit of a media company, it has held that it is independent of the company. However, a clear explanation of why this criteria is not applicable to it might be in order.
cancel 6.5 marked as Request change by Kanchan Kaur.
Kanchan Kaur Assessor
26-Jan-2021 (3 years ago)
The parent body of the applicant has an open corrections policy, too.