India is witnessing a steady tightening of rules for digital media, social media and OTT platforms. The central government is soon going to make major amendments to the IT Rules 2021 related to digital media. The government has sought suggestions for the proposed changes. A recent observation by the Delhi High Court further strengthens this possibility.
According to the Delhi High Court, digital media is very different from traditional print and electronic media. News disseminated through the internet and social media is reaching millions of people very quickly. Due to this, a false news is being spread very quickly. The court said that the current legal framework is not capable of addressing all the challenges of the changing digital environment. Therefore, the Parliament should enact a legal framework that will ensure professional standards, responsibility and ethics in digital media.
What are the laws for digital media in India now?
- Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act, 2000)
The Information Technology Act, 2000, is the main cyber law of the Government of India. It was enacted on 17 October 2000. The Act gives legal status to digital documents, electronic transactions (e-commerce) and digital signatures. It also provides for the prevention and punishment of cybercrimes. - Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Code of Ethics) Rules, 2021
This rule was made in 2021 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. It establishes a code of conduct for social media platforms and digital media publishers and a robust complaint redressal mechanism. - Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
The Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023 regulates matters related to data protection of citizens. It protects the personal digital information of citizens. Ensures that your personal information, such as name, mobile number, and email, is secure. Companies cannot use your personal information without your consent.
