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New Delhi: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) has proposed amendments to the IT Rules 2021 and has invited suggestions from the general public, companies, and other relevant stakeholders. The government says it aims to make the internet safer, more trustworthy, and more accountable, reports Tezzbuzz News correspondent.

Why Are These Changes Being Made?

The government states that, in today’s environment, content spreads rapidly across the internet—including misinformation, fake news, and objectionable material. Consequently, it has become imperative to strengthen these rules to ensure that digital platforms properly fulfill their responsibilities.

The objective of these amendments is to provide greater clarity to the regulations and to ensure their strict enforcement. The proposed amendments seek to strengthen compliance with clarifications, advisories and directions issued by the Ministry under Part II, and to enhance the effectiveness of regulatory oversight of content regulation mechanisms under Part III (Code of Ethics relating to Digital Media) of the IT Rules, 2021.

How Will This Impact Intermediaries?

Intermediaries—specifically social media platforms, websites, and apps—will now be required to strictly adhere to the instructions, guidelines, and advisories issued by the government.

Failure to comply could result in punitive action being taken against them. This will significantly increase the level of accountability expected from these platforms.

What Changes Are Coming to Content Monitoring?

Under the proposed amendments, the surveillance and oversight of content to digital media and news will be further strengthened. Action can now be initiated not merely on the basis of user complaints, but also in response to specific cases referred by the government.

To facilitate this, the role of an inter-departmental committee will be expanded, enabling it to review a broader range of cases. These amendments will have a direct impact on ordinary internet users as well.

While, on one hand, users can expect access to safer and more trustworthy content, on the other, there may be increased scrutiny of their online activities. The government asserts that these measures will foster a more responsible internet ecosystem.

What is the Deadline for Submitting Suggestions?

The government has invited suggestions regarding this draft proposal until April 14, 2026. Individuals may submit their views via email. The submissions will be held in fiduciary capacity in MeitY and shall not be disclosed to any one at any stage, enabling persons to submit feedback/comments freely without any hesitation. It now remains to be seen what final modifications are made to these regulations following the suggestions received.