New Delhi In the wake of a recent controversy involving crass remarks by social media influencer Ranveer Allahbadia, the Indian government is re-examining its approach to regulating digital content. The Information and Broadcasting Ministry, based in New Delhi, is currently assessing whether existing laws are sufficient to tackle the growing concern over obscene and violent content on digital platforms. This move comes as various stakeholders, including high courts, the Supreme Court, and statutory bodies like the National Commission of Women, have voiced their concerns about the misuse of freedom of expression online.
The ministry’s review is prompted by a parliamentary panel’s request to evaluate the need for stricter legal frameworks to manage controversial content on new media platforms such as OTT services and YouTube. Unlike traditional media, these platforms lack specific regulatory frameworks, leading to calls for amendments to existing laws or the creation of new ones. The controversy surrounding Allahbadia’s comments has highlighted the urgency of this issue, with criminal cases filed against him and widespread public condemnation despite his apology.
The Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology, chaired by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, is set to meet on February 25 to discuss these developments further. The ministry has assured that it will submit a detailed note after thorough deliberations. While there are concerns about potential censorship, the recurring public outrage over such incidents has strengthened the demand for a more robust legal framework to regulate harmful digital content.
