At PathwayIndia.org, we recognize that credibility, accuracy, and public trust are the pillars of responsible journalism. Our commitment to truthful reporting drives us to maintain a rigorous and transparent fact-checking process. This document outlines our editorial standards and procedures for ensuring the veracity of every piece of information published on our platform.
Due Accuracy in All Our Content
We are committed to maintaining due accuracy – meaning not only factual correctness, but also the spirit and intent of the information we present. Each report takes into account the subject matter, audience expectations, and the potential impact on readers. Accuracy is not optional—it is essential to our identity as a news platform.
We strive to:
- Cross-verify all claims using reliable, independent sources.
- Seek comments from all relevant stakeholders when reporting on matters of public interest.
- Highlight areas of uncertainty or developing information clearly.
- Treat soft features, positive stories, and investigative journalism with appropriately different levels of verification, without compromising credibility.
Our Internal Fact-Check Process
To ensure integrity in our news content, we adhere to the following practices:
- All news must originate from verified and trustworthy sources. Where direct sources are unavailable, attribution to the original platform is mandatory.
- Claims from public authorities or potentially biased sources are cross-verified, and any unconfirmed details are clearly qualified in the story.
- If any published content is found to be factually incorrect, we promptly correct or update the article and transparently inform our readers about the changes made.
- All editorial content undergoes a multi-level review process, including at least one editor. The level of seniority involved depends on the complexity and sensitivity of the topic.
- A clear and accessible mechanism is provided for readers to flag inaccuracies via a “Suggest A Correction” section at the end of each report.
Sourcing and Verification Protocols
We follow strict sourcing guidelines to ensure that our content is built on solid factual foundations:
- Minimum two-source confirmation for all critical facts, wherever feasible.
- If using a single source, its credibility is confirmed through independent validation.
- Whenever possible, rely on documentary or on-record evidence rather than anonymous testimony.
- For data or survey-based reports, we disclose methodology and source transparency.
- Clearly explain when and why an anonymous source is used, ensuring readers understand the reasoning and context.
- All relevant source information is shared internally with editors for cross-verification and accountability.
Fairness and Right to Reply
When reporting on individuals or institutions in a potentially negative light, we:
- Reach out to all involved parties to seek their version or clarification.
- Publish their responses or mention our efforts to get one.
- Clearly state the extent of engagement with each source when responses are not received.
We strive to balance powerful voices with underrepresented ones, making space for those without mainstream access to share their perspectives.
User-Generated Content (UGC)
User-submitted content is treated with extra scrutiny, especially in the digital era where misinformation can spread rapidly. We:
- Do not publish any UGC without verification and editorial oversight.
- Distinguish UGC from verified reporting and label it appropriately.
- Assess whether sources (especially from social media or lobbying groups) have a vested interest in the narrative.
- Verify the authenticity of visuals, quotes, or data gathered from digital platforms or non-journalistic sources.
Continuous Responsibility
We believe the responsibility of fact-checking lies with everyone in the newsroom—from reporters to editors. If there is ever doubt, consultation with a senior editorial member is mandatory before publishing.
Our fact-checking policy is a living document, and we continue to evolve our processes based on technological developments, public feedback, and media ethics best practices.
