Policy · Government, Defense & Space

MeitY proposes stricter IT rules for social media

By Startup Enthusiast · 30 March 2026

What they do

MeitY proposed amendments to IT rules requiring platforms to remove unlawful content within 3 hours

The amendments expand oversight to user-posted news and invite public feedback by April 14

The government expects improved legal certainty, while critics cite increased censorship

MeitY proposed amendments to the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
The amendments were issued under Section 87 of the IT Act, 2000.
Social media intermediaries like Meta, Google, and X must comply with all government clarifications, advisories, and orders.
Platforms must remove content that may be used to commit unlawful acts within 3 hours of actual knowledge.
Actual knowledge arises from a court order or a reasoned written intimation by an authorised government officer.
Compliance with directions is part of due diligence obligations under Section 79 of the IT Act for safe-harbour protections.
Government takedown intimation must specify the legal basis, statutory provision, nature of unlawful act, and exact URL.
Takedown notices are subject to monthly review by a senior government official for necessity, proportionality, and legality.
The amendments expand the digital media regulatory framework to include news and current affairs content posted by users on intermediary platforms.
MeitY invited stakeholder feedback on the draft amendments by April 14, 2026.

The government expects the amendments to improve legal certainty and ensure effective oversight of intermediary-hosted content.
The Internet Freedom Foundation called for immediate withdrawal, citing fear and increased government-directed censorship.
Earlier in March 2026, the government considered empowering ministries of home affairs, external affairs, defence, and I&B to issue content blocking orders.
In February 2026, MeitY introduced a definition of synthetically generated information and mandated labelling of AI-generated content from February 20, 2026.
The central government is considering restricting social media usage for minors, with Karnataka proposing a ban for children under 16 and Andhra Pradesh for children below 13.

SEDEMAC Mechatronics designs and manufactures electronic engine controllers and mechatronic systems.
Its products are used in two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and small engines.
The company's systems help improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
SEDEMAC serves automotive OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) in India and abroad.
The company is based in Pune, India.

MeitY will consider stakeholder feedback submitted by April 14, 2026 before finalising the amendments.