Misinformation: Analysing the Role of Fact-Checking in Countering Communal and Political Narratives During the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections in India

The surge of misinformation and disinformation during elections poses a significant risk to democratic processes globally, especially in India. This study analyses the efficacy of fact-checking programs and the public's opinion of these efforts within the framework of Indian elections. The study used a mixed-methods methodology to analyse data from notable fact-checking platform, like Alt news concentrating on the six months prior to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The study categorizes these events into communal and non-communal narratives, demonstrating how misinformation exacerbates societal divisions, shapes voter perceptions, and undermines political and economic stability. The paper advocates for cooperative efforts among governments, social media platforms, and the public to combat misinformation, improve media literacy, and protect democratic principles.