The Indian government has introduced a proposal to amend the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidlines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. proposed changes aim to expand the regulatory oversight of online content and increase the compliance obligations for digital intermediaries.

The potential expansion of government oversight to independent news creators on YouTube, Instagram and X is sparking a debate over digital freedom. By placing these creators under a formal legal framework, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) would gain the authority to mandate content removals, public apologies, or editorial changes based on recommendations from an inter-departmental committee.

ALSO READ: Lakhpati Didi, Rs 3000 For Women, UCC: BJP Releases Assam Poll Manifesto | Key Announcements

Regulation Of News Shared By Non-Publishers

A significant aspect of the draft is the extension of Part III of the IT Rules to intermediaries that host news and current affairs content posted by users who are not registered publishers. This move effectively brings the dissemination of news by ordinary users under the same ethical regulatory framework that currently governs professional digital media outlets.

ALSO READ: 'No Longer On Earth Because...': White House Press Secretary Reveals Why US Killed Iranian Leaders

The provisions will apply to any news-related content that is hosted, uploaded, modified, published, or shared on an intermediary's platform by these non-publisher users.

The reach of these rules may extend even further, potentially impacting creators who don't typically focus on news; for example, a stand-up comedian riffing on a specific government policy could find themselves subject to the same legal oversight. This suggests a framework where any commentary on current events, regardless of the creator's primary niche, falls under the new mandate.

Stricter Compliance And Due Diligence

The draft introduces a new Rule 3(4) under Part II, which explicitly mandates intermediaries to follow all advisories, directions, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and guidelines issued by the Ministry.

Adherence to these government instructions will now be a formal part of the "due diligence" requirements under Section 79 of the IT Act. Additionally, the proposal clarifies that data retention obligations under Rules 3(1)(g) and 3(1)(h) will remain in effect without prejudice to other applicable laws.

ALSO READ: US Army Launches Investigation After Apache Helicopter Seen Hovering Feet Away From Kid Rock's Home

Strengthening Executive Oversight

The proposal seeks to empower the Inter-Departmental Committee formed under Rule 14. Under the new draft, this committee’s scope would be broadened to:

- Review complaints received against digital content.

- Deliberate on specific cases referred directly to it by the Ministry.

- This adjustment significantly enhances the executive branch's role in monitoring and regulating digital content across platforms.

Feedback Deadline

The Ministry has invited stakeholders to provide their input and feedback on these proposed amendments. The deadline for submitting responses has been set for April 14, 2026.