In recent years, the Government of India has implemented significant measures to combat the misuse of digital platforms and safeguard users, particularly vulnerable groups such as women and children. The rise of the internet, social media, and streaming platforms has led to various challenges, including the spread of sexually explicit content, online exploitation, and cybercrime. In response, the government has enhanced legal frameworks, enforced stricter compliance guidelines for digital platforms, and initiated several institutional and technical measures. These initiatives aim to balance freedom of expression with the responsibility to ensure online safety and accountability.
Under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, social media platforms are required to take decisive actions against inappropriate content. They must remove any material depicting nudity, sexual acts, or private body parts within 24 hours of receiving user complaints. Furthermore, platforms must assist in identifying the first originator of objectionable messages related to serious crimes like rape and child sexual abuse. Users also now possess the right to appeal content moderation decisions through dedicated Grievance Appellate Committees established by the government.
Platforms that fail to adhere to the prescribed IT Rules risk losing their "safe harbour" protection under Section 79 of the IT Act. This means they can be held legally accountable for any user-generated content that violates Indian laws, significantly increasing their liability.
The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) continues to oversee cinema content by assigning age-based certificates, such as U, UA, A, and S. In the digital arena, Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms must categorize content based on age, ensure access restrictions for children, and implement robust age verification systems as part of their Code of Ethics.
Citizens can report cybercrimes through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in), which serves as a dedicated platform for various cybercrime types, including financial fraud, identity theft, and cyberbullying, especially those affecting women and children. Reports can be submitted anonymously, with the portal ensuring prompt forwarding to relevant law enforcement authorities.
The I4C, operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs, acts as a central coordination body for combating cybercrime. It facilitates collaboration between law enforcement agencies, supports the establishment of cyber forensic laboratories across states, and provides training for police officers and prosecutors in managing cybercrime cases effectively.
India collaborates with international organizations like Interpol and the Internet Watch Foundation to identify and block websites hosting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). These sites are promptly taken down to prevent further exploitation.
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are encouraged to provide parental control tools that help guardians monitor and restrict children's access to harmful content. Additionally, the government conducts awareness campaigns through digital media, schools, and civil society organizations to educate children, parents, and educators on safe internet practices.
India's National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has partnered with the US-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). This partnership facilitates the exchange of critical information regarding CSAM, ensuring that cases of online child exploitation are addressed promptly through coordinated actions.
Q1. What are the key provisions introduced under the amended IT Rules in 2025 for social media and digital platforms?
Answer: The IT Rules 2025 mandate social media platforms to remove objectionable content within 24 hours of complaints and facilitate identification of the originator of harmful messages. Users can also appeal moderation decisions through Grievance Appellate Committees.
Q2. What consequences do platforms face if they fail to comply with the IT Rules?
Answer: Non-compliance can result in the loss of “safe harbour” protection under Section 79 of the IT Act, making platforms legally accountable for user-generated content that violates Indian laws.
Q3. How is adult content regulated in the entertainment sector?
Answer: The CBFC regulates cinema by assigning age-based certificates, while OTT platforms must classify content, restrict access for children, and implement age verification systems as part of their Code of Ethics.
Q4. Where can citizens report cybercrimes, and what is the process?
Answer: Citizens can report cybercrimes through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in, allowing anonymous submissions that are forwarded to law enforcement authorities.
Q5. What is the role of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)?
Answer: The I4C coordinates efforts against cybercrime, facilitates collaboration between agencies, supports cyber forensic labs, and provides training for law enforcement on handling cybercrime effectively.
Question 1: What is the primary aim of the IT Rules 2025 introduced in India?
A) To enhance freedom of expression
B) To strengthen online safety and accountability
C) To regulate internet service providers
D) To promote digital literacy
Correct Answer: B
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