Amid Deepfake Concerns, IT Minister Promises Platform To Flag Violations, File FIR; Gives 7-Day Deadline To Social Media Cos

In response to the widespread alarm and indignation triggered by a series of deepfake videos on social media, Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar announced today (24 November) that the government will soon designate an officer to handle and take suitable action against such content.

He announced that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITy) plans to create a website. This platform will allow users to report any concerns they may have about violations of IT rules.

According to NDTV, he further stated that MEITy will provide assistance to users in notifying them about any such violations and help them in the process of filing a First Information Report (FIR).

The minister stated that the FIR would be filed against the intermediary. However, if the intermediary reveals the origin of the content, the entity that posted the content will be the one against whom the case is filed.

Chandrasekhar stated that social media platforms are provided with a one-week deadline to adjust their terms of use in accordance with the IT rules. He declared that starting today, any breach of IT rules will not be tolerated.

He cautioned, "In the era of Artificial Intelligence, the responsible use of technology is of utmost importance."

The government has stated that the production and distribution of deepfakes are subject to severe punishment, including a fine of Rs 1 lakh and imprisonment for three years.

Earlier this month, MEITy issued guidance to social media platforms, emphasising the legal consequences associated with deepfakes, including the potential penalties for their production and distribution.

Chandrasekhar asserted that online platforms are legally obliged to curb the proliferation of misinformation. He stated that they should promptly delete any reported misleading content within 36 hours of its reporting.

He further emphasised that they must act swiftly, adhering to the timelines prescribed under the IT Rules 2021, and restrict access to such content or information, as per the statement.