The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has taken a significant step to combat the spread of false information on online platforms. In an advisory issued to platforms such as Meta and Google, MeitY emphasized the importance of adhering to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, with a focus on Rule 3(1)(b), which outlines prohibited content categories.
Online platforms, including major players like Meta and Google, have been given a week to ensure compliance with the rules and are required to submit an “Action Taken-cum-Status Report.” Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the Minister of State for IT, stated that MeitY will closely monitor compliance and is open to making further amendments to IT Rules or laws if deemed necessary.
The advisory specifically instructs platforms to actively identify and remove false or misleading information, including deepfakes. Platforms are also encouraged to communicate clearly with users about prohibited content, both at the time of registration and through regular reminders during platform use.
This advisory marks a departure from MeitY’s previous approach, now placing a stronger emphasis on platforms taking concrete measures to address misinformation and deepfakes. The ministry also stresses the importance of platforms informing users about the legal consequences of violating Rule 3(1)(b) and reporting such violations to law enforcement agencies.
In addition to addressing misinformation, the advisory instructs platforms to take measures against the promotion of illegal loan and betting apps. This directive aligns with discussions held during a meeting on December 5, where intermediaries were advised to treat content reports and complaints as grievances, assigning them ticket numbers for proper tracking.
Despite concerns raised by companies like Meta, Sharechat, YouTube, and Jio during the December 5 meeting, MeitY underscores the significance of following the grievance redressal process outlined in the IT Rules.
