Siddhartha Basu & Derek O'Brien Stress Fact-Checking in Misinformation Era

New Delhi, July 4 (PTI) — In today's world of rampant misinformation and propaganda, having a strong foundation of contextual knowledge and information is crucial, according to Siddhartha Basu, a renowned television personality and quiz master. This insight was shared in a blog post by Derek O'Brien, a Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament.

The blog post highlights a conversation between O'Brien, famous for hosting the "Bournvita Quiz Contest," and Basu, known for masterminding popular shows like "Kaun Banega Crorepati." The two quizzing experts reflected on the evolution of India's quizzing scene over the years.

Basu emphasized the necessity of contextual knowledge in the current climate, citing the abundance of misinformation, often termed as "WhatsApp University." "It's vital to train not only young people but also ourselves to be vigilant," Basu, who hosted "Quiz Time" on Doordarshan in the 1980s, noted.

The quiz masters underscored the critical need for information verification and fact-checking. O'Brien recounted that his father, Neil O'Brien, an acclaimed quiz master credited with organizing the first formal quiz in Kolkata, consistently wrote down questions in a diary.

"When preparing for a quiz or conducting research, whether for a quiz or for Parliament, a simple rule stands: consult three authentic sources," O'Brien advised. Basu added that everyone bears the responsibility to ensure factual accuracy before circulating information.

He stressed that "fact-checking for publicly shared content is crucial, and individuals should undertake this at their level." O'Brien further highlighted the responsibility of content sharers, stating, "When you share information on a family WhatsApp group without verifying, you act as the editor, placing the onus of accuracy on you."