Govt Warns Social Media Platforms Over Illegal Content

Social media platforms in India have long benefited from legal protection under the IT Act, but this immunity is tied to strict due diligence obligations. Authorities have grown increasingly concerned about platforms prioritising growth over responsibility, especially when unlawful content spreads unchecked.

On December 29, 2025, the Ministry of Electronics and IT issued a strong advisory to social media companies. It warned of serious legal consequences if platforms fail to curb obscene, vulgar, pornographic, pedophilic, and other illegal content.

The advisory highlighted lapses in compliance with Section 79 of the IT Act and the 2021 IT Rules. These provisions require platforms to make reasonable efforts to prevent such uploads and remove explicit content swiftly, often within 24 hours of receiving notice.

Failure to comply could now invite prosecution under the IT Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and other applicable laws. This puts not only platforms but also users at legal risk if violations continue.

While companies argue that moderation is difficult at India’s massive scale, the government’s warning reflects mounting frustration. Weak enforcement has allowed harmful content to circulate, damaging trust and exposing vulnerable users, especially children.

The advisory signals a push for platforms to invest more in AI tools and human moderation aligned with Indian laws. The real challenge will be consistent enforcement and whether this move truly shifts focus from rapid expansion to accountability.