Tag: parliamentary panel

  • India Parliamentary Panel Puts Meta on Notice Over PM Modi Video Removal, Threatens Safe Harbour Repeal

    India Parliamentary Panel Puts Meta on Notice Over PM Modi Video Removal, Threatens Safe Harbour Repeal

    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.

  • Indian Parliamentary Panel Rejects Meta’s Apology, Demands Action Over PM Modi Video Takedown

    Indian Parliamentary Panel Rejects Meta’s Apology, Demands Action Over PM Modi Video Takedown

    Meta has apologized to a parliamentary panel in India over the removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Facebook video, but lawmakers are pushing for more than just an apology. The company described the takedown as a technical error and restored the video after government concerns were raised.

    Panel Demands Accountability

    During a meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology in New Delhi, Meta officials faced questions about the removal, its authorization, and who was responsible. Committee members, led by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, demanded accountability and called on Meta to identify the official involved and consider legal action.

    “The committee is seeking accountability,” a senior BJP member reportedly said, adding that an apology alone would not be sufficient. The panel wants answers and stronger action against those responsible for the incident.

    Broader Scrutiny of Content Moderation

    The meeting focused on social media regulation and platform accountability, with representatives from Meta, Google, YouTube, X, Snapchat, the Union home ministry, and MeitY in attendance. The temporary restriction of PM Modi’s video—which addressed India’s youth and promised strict action against paper leaks—raised concerns about content moderation systems handling sensitive political communications.

    Meta had earlier described the restriction as a glitch, but MeitY called the explanation inadequate and demanded greater clarity. Lawmakers also questioned Meta about controversial and objectionable content remaining on its platforms, seeking details on moderation measures.

    Growing Pressure on Foreign Tech Platforms

    The incident adds to mounting pressure on Meta as Indian authorities examine platform compliance with national laws. Government sources have linked the broader debate to concerns over public order and national security. The committee’s questions now shift attention from Meta’s apology toward stronger platform accountability, highlighting the intense scrutiny foreign technology platforms face in India.