Govt Moves To Extend IT Rules To Social Media & Independent Content Creators

New Delhi, Mar 31 (KNN) The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has proposed amendments to the Information Technology Rules 2021 to expand regulation of online news content, including that posted by individual users and intermediaries.

The draft seeks to extend the Code of Ethics under Part III—currently applicable to publishers—to social media platforms and independent content creators on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X. Such creators would fall under the oversight of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB).

Content posted by users on news and current affairs could be subject to the same framework as publishers, allowing for modification, deletion, or even blocking in case of violations.

Stronger Oversight Mechanism & Compliance Norms

The proposal also expands the role of the Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC) under Rule 14, enabling it to examine issues beyond formal complaints, including matters referred directly by the government.

Amendments to Part II require intermediaries to comply with government advisories and directions as part of due diligence under the IT Act, failing which they may face legal action. Data retention provisions have also been clarified.

Consultation Open

The government has described the changes as clarificatory, but they indicate closer regulatory supervision of online content. Public comments on the draft amendments are invited until April 14, 2026.

(KNN Bureau)