(Image source from: Deccanchronicle.com)

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is currently reviewing current legal regulations and considering the necessity for a revised legal framework to govern "harmful" content, in light of complaints regarding "obscenity and violence" on digital platforms. In their response to a parliamentary committee, the ministry indicated that there is increasing societal alarm that the constitutional right to "freedom of expression is being exploited to present obscene and violent material on digital mediums." It informed the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, led by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, that while there are existing provisions in the law, there is a rising call for a more stringent and efficient legal framework to manage such detrimental content. The ministry stated, “This ministry is aware of these developments and is actively evaluating current statutory provisions as well as the necessity for a new legal framework.”

The ministry noted that numerous high courts, the Supreme Court, Members of Parliament, and bodies like the National Commission of Women have discussed this issue, particularly following the backlash against social media influencer Ranveer Allahbadia for his offensive remarks. Legal actions have been initiated against him, and his attempts at apology have largely failed to quell the controversy. Although the Supreme Court has granted him temporary relief from arrest, it has also expressed serious criticism of his inappropriate comments.

The ministry informed the committee, which is scheduled to meet again on February 25, that a comprehensive report will be prepared following careful consideration. The committee had inquired on February 13 about potential amendments necessary to existing laws to tackle contentious content, particularly with the rise of new technologies and media avenues. Unlike traditional print and broadcast media, which are governed by specific laws, online platforms such as OTT services or YouTube currently lack a defined regulatory structure, leading to increased calls for legal amendments. While there are concerns that new measures could be misused for censorship, public outrage resulting from incidents like that of Mr. Allahbadia has intensified the demand for reinforcing the legal framework through revisions to current laws or the creation of new legislation.