Supreme Court Advocates for Web Content Watchdog, Emphasizes Accountability in Digital Space

In a landmark hearing, the Supreme Court underscored the importance of creating an independent and neutral watchdog to regulate digital content. Chief Justice Surya Kant remarked on the troubling lack of accountability for content creators, noting, "So I create my own channel, I am not accountable to anyone... somebody has to be accountable".

The case emerged from complaints involving several digital creators and the controversial show “India’s Got Latent,” where issues of offensive, obscene, and anti-national content surfaced. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta emphasized the challenge posed by "perversity" in user-generated content across platforms like YouTube.

Justices expressed concerns about the effectiveness of self-regulation and the rapid viral spread of harmful content before authorities can react. They proposed that the new watchdog include experts from judiciary, media, and technology to ensure balanced oversight.

The court granted the government four weeks to draft regulations governing social media content, aiming to protect fundamental rights while fostering responsible digital expression.

Key Highlights:

Supreme Court calls for autonomous regulatory body for online content.

Accountability emphasized as crucial for digital creators and platforms.

Issues include obscene, perverse, and anti-national content on social media.

Current self-regulation deemed insufficient to control rapid viral spread.

Proposed watchdog to comprise judiciary, media, and tech experts.

Government given deadline to prepare draft regulations.

Balancing freedom of speech with societal responsibility emphasized.

Sources: NDTV, India Today, LiveLaw​