The Indian version of Twitter is the only social media platform that has followed the new guidelines before the May 25 deadline. In February 2021, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITy) gave social media platforms three months to comply with IT regulations.
“This moment is very cruel for social media companies,” said an official. This is because if they do not follow the new rules by 25 May they will lose their status and protection as intermediaries and according to the laws of India criminal action can be taken against them. US-based companies had sought six months for this as they are awaiting a response from the US headquarters.
Disclosing whether Facebook will abide by the rules or not, the company spokesperson said in a statement, “Our aim is to follow the provisions of the IT rules and continue to discuss some issues that require more engagement with the government.” Is required Facebook is committed to the ability of people to express themselves freely and safely on their platform. ‘
According to the new rules announced by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, social media platforms will have to appoint compliance officers from India. The officials will look into the complaints, monitor the content and remove it if it is objectionable. Such rules apply not only to social media platforms but also to OTT platforms.
Other streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, have to appoint a Grievance Redressal Officer in India who will take care of the complaints and take action on them in 15 days. The government believes that there is no code for self-regulation on social media platforms. Therefore, it wants companies to include representatives from various ministries and form a committee to regulate the content.
The new rules also mention that the committee will have the sole authority to take action on complaints of code violations.
