Hateful Content On Social Media? Get Ready For Action!

It is already known that the government of India has been taking several progressive measures with regard to the restriction of unlawful content on social media. In this context, something interesting is happening now as certain curbs are being placed on removal of such content from social platforms.

India has significantly tightened its digital regulation framework by directing social media platforms to remove unlawful content within just three hours of receiving an official notice.

Earlier, companies were given up to 36 hours to act, but the government believes the faster timeline is necessary to curb the rapid spread of harmful material online.

The revised rule is part of an update to the country’s Information Technology regulations and is expected to come into force later this month. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X will now be required to respond almost immediately once a court or authorized government body flags problematic content.

Another important element of the new guidelines focuses on artificial intelligence based material. Companies must clearly label synthetic or machine created content so that users can easily identify what is real and what is digitally produced.

The move is aimed at controlling misinformation, deepfakes, and other forms of deceptive media that can influence public opinion or trigger panic.

While the government says the decision will strengthen online safety and accountability, industry observers believe the compressed deadline could create serious operational pressure for technology firms.

It also reignites the ongoing debate about balancing stronger regulation with the protection of free expression in one of the world’s largest internet markets.