Meta is facing mounting pressure in India after a video featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi was temporarily removed from one of its platforms. The video showed the Prime Minister assuring students that strict action would be taken against those responsible for a paper leak incident. Following the brief takedown, a parliamentary panel has demanded an apology from Meta, warning that the company could lose its safe harbour protections if it fails to comply.
The Parliamentary Committee on Communications and Information Technology issued a three-day ultimatum to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, insisting on an apology to Prime Minister Modi. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who chairs the panel, called the removal an “attack on democracy.” The safe harbour clause currently prevents the Indian government from filing First Information Reports (FIRs) directly against social media platform officials. Removing that clause would allow the government to take legal action.
Meta had previously apologized for what it described as a technical glitch that caused the video to be removed. However, India’s Ministry of Information and Technology found that explanation insufficient and unconvincing.
CSAM Scrutiny Intensifies
The video removal is not the only regulatory challenge Meta faces in India. Last month, the company came under scrutiny over child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on its platforms. Reports indicated that such content was appearing in paid advertisements on Instagram, prompting the government to send Meta a formal notice.
According to data from the National Crime Records Bureau, 1,238 cybercrime cases were registered against children in 2024. Of those, 1,099 involved the publication or transmission of sexually explicit material involving minors. Nishikant Dubey warned social media platforms, stating: “Pornographic content cannot be allowed in India. Child sexual abuse material is a heinous crime. AI-generated fake videos of women or obscene depiction of women are also heinous crimes.” He added that this issue “is above political parties, religion, and caste because this country is extremely sensitive when it comes to children and women.”
The Indian government has warned social media platforms to either comply with CSAM rules or face legal action.
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