The Centre’s strong warning to Meta regarding child sexual abuse material (CSAM) has prompted the social media company to take action and respond with greater sensitivity, IT Ministry sources said on Tuesday, emphasising that there is no safe harbour when the law is breached.
The government has clearly stated that CSAM constitutes a grave offence and that platforms are required to adhere to Indian laws and regulations, the sources added.
They stated that the Centre’s strategy is not intended to censor or limit reporting, but to ensure adherence to Indian laws and reduce harms associated with social media.
"The message has gone home," the sources said.
Meta explains algorithms, systems
Ministry sources said that during talks with the government, Meta outlined the functioning of its algorithms and systems.
Discussions are still underway, with sources emphasizing that choices on these issues require judgment calls and fine adjustments.
The government has consistently asserted that platforms are responsible for tackling social media-related harms while maintaining an appropriate balance, according to the sources.
They added that worries about the harmful effects of social media are not confined to India and are also shared by countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and France.
Regarding WhatsApp usernames, sources indicated that the issue is currently being reviewed, as it affects not only WhatsApp but also other messaging services.
They stated that the government is reviewing the broader consequences before reaching a decision.
AI-generated content must carry labels
Regarding AI labelling, a ministry official stated that the law clearly requires synthetically generated content to be identified as such.
The official noted that responsibility exists at three levels, including with the platforms themselves, and emphasized that platforms are obligated to meet this labelling requirement.
The government has reiterated that technology platforms must take responsibility for the impact of their services and ensure compliance with Indian laws, sources said.