India Takes Aim at Fake News, AI-Generated Deepfakes: Govt Unveils New Rules

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New Delhi: India's government is cracking down on fake news and AI-generated deepfakes, labeling them a 'serious threat to democracy.' Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed that the government is strengthening rules to curb misinformation on social media, citing the need to balance free speech with the protection of democratic institutions. In a written response to a starred question in Parliament, Vaishnaw emphasized the urgent need for action against false information and content misleading the public. He noted that some social media platforms are not adhering to India's constitution or complying with laws passed by Parliament. The IT ministry, led by Vaishnaw, has proposed draft amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. These amendments aim to define 'synthetically generated information' and require social media intermediaries to label AI-generated content. Feedback on the draft amendments was invited until November 13, and consultations are ongoing. The IT ministry has also tightened the rules on how intermediaries must act on unlawful content, mandating action within 36 hours of receiving actual knowledge, either through a court order or a written notice from a government officer of at least Joint Secretary rank. Vaishnaw highlighted that fake and misleading news is increasing across various platforms, including TV, print, and digital media. While different rules already exist to control this, the government can block content under Section 69A of the IT Act and has a Fact Check Unit under the Press Information Bureau (PIB) to verify news related to the central government. The government has also taken note of a detailed report submitted by the Parliamentary standing committee on Communications and Information Technology, which includes recommendations on improving the legal framework for digital safety and accountability. Vaishnaw emphasized that the challenge lies in finding a balance between freedom of speech and the need to protect democratic institutions. The government is approaching this issue with 'full sensitivity,' as he put it.