Social Media Crackdown: Government Warns Platforms Over Vulgar Content

In a strong move to regulate online content, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a fresh advisory to major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and X, over the rising presence of vulgar and unlawful material. The advisory, dated December 29, 2025, underscores the government’s determination to enforce stricter compliance with existing laws and protect users from harmful content.  

Key highlights from the announcement include  

• MeitY observed that platforms have failed to act decisively against obscene, vulgar, pornographic, and child sexual abuse material.  
• The advisory reminded intermediaries of their statutory obligations under Section 79 of the IT Act and IT Rules 2021.  
• Platforms must remove illegal and sexually explicit content within 24 hours of reporting, as mandated by IT Rules.  
• Failure to comply could invite prosecution under the IT Act, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and other criminal laws.  
• Social media firms have been asked to urgently review their compliance frameworks and strengthen content moderation practices.  
• The government emphasized that exemption from liability is conditional upon due diligence and proactive removal of unlawful content.  
• The warning comes amid growing concerns about the impact of vulgar and obscene content on youth and public morality.  
• Officials highlighted that platforms must ensure user safety and uphold community standards to avoid legal repercussions.  
• Industry experts believe this advisory signals a tougher stance by the government on digital regulation.  
• The move is expected to push platforms toward stricter monitoring and faster response mechanisms.  

The advisory marks a significant escalation in India’s digital governance framework, reflecting the government’s intent to hold platforms accountable for content hosted on their services. By reinforcing obligations under IT laws, the Centre aims to ensure safer online spaces and curb the spread of harmful material.  

Sources: Times Now, Digit, MSN, Telegraph India