The Central government has addressed Rajya Sabha MP Madan Rathore’s query regarding regulating obscene and harmful content on social media platforms. Union Minister Jitin Prasada affirmed that India’s current legal framework, including the IT Act, 2000, and IT Rules, 2021, is robust in combating social media misuse. The government is committed to maintaining a safe digital environment and tackling cyber threats effectively.
Rathore highlighted the IT Act’s provisions for cyber offenses like identity theft, privacy violations, and dissemination of explicit material. He pointed out that social media intermediaries must exercise due diligence under the IT Rules, 2021, to prevent the spread of unlawful content. Intermediaries failing to comply risk losing legal immunity and facing liability.
Moreover, ‘Significant Social Media Intermediaries’ with over 5 million users are mandated to appoint key officials for better coordination with law enforcement. Grievance Appellate Committees have been set up to improve user grievance redressal. Amendments to the IT Rules from February 20, 2026, introduce measures to combat emerging threats like deepfakes and misleading content through enhanced due diligence and content removal timelines.
Rathore praised the government’s proactive response, emphasizing the importance of curbing harmful social media content. Strengthened legal provisions aim to enhance platform accountability and protect citizens, especially youth, from digital risks. He lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in advancing a secure and responsible digital ecosystem, aiming to promote lawful and ethical internet use for India’s digital progress.
