IT Rules, 2021:

GS Paper 2:

Topics Covered: Government Policies and issues arising out of their design and implementation.

Context:

The Information & Broadcasting (I&B) Ministry has blocked 16 YouTube news channels, including six from Pakistan.

• Previously, it had blocked 78 YouTube news channels, including 18 from India, on various charges.

Why?

On charges of spreading false and unverified information to create panic, incite communal disharmony and disturb public order in the country.

Legal basis:

The action has been taken using emergency powers under Rule 18 of the IT Rules, 2021.

Overview of the IT rules, 2021:

1. It mandates a grievance redressal system for over the top (OTT) and digital portals in the country. This is necessary for the users of social media to raise their grievance against the misuse of social media.
2. Significant social media firms have to appoint a chief compliance officer and have a nodal contact person who can be in touch with law enforcement agencies 24/7.
3. A grievance officer: Social media platforms will also have to name a grievance officer who shall register the grievance within 24 hours and dispose of it in 15 days.
4. Removal of content: If there are complaints against the dignity of users, particularly women – about exposed private parts of individuals or nudity or sexual act or impersonation etc – social media platforms will be required to remove that within 24 hours after a complaint is made.
5. A monthly report: They also will have to publish a monthly report about the number of complaints received and the status of redressal.
6. There will be three levels of regulation for news publishers — self-regulation, a self-regulatory body, headed by a retired judge or an eminent person, and oversight from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, including codes of practices and a grievance committee.

What is a significant social media intermediary and benefits obtained under it?

Social media companies with more than 50 lakh registered users will be considered ‘significant social media intermediaries’, as per the new norms.

What happens in case of non compliance?

• Social media giants such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and WhatsApp messenger could face a ban if they do not comply with the new Information Technology rules.
• They also run the risk of losing their status as “intermediaries” and may become liable for criminal action if they do not comply with the revised regulations.

InstaLinks:

Prelims Link:

1. Overview of the new rules.
2. Who are intermediaries as per the definition?
3. What is safe harbour protection?
4. Grievance redressal mechanism as provided under the new rules.

Mains Link:

What are the concerns being raised against the new IT rules? Discuss ways to address these concerns.

Sources: the Hindu.