The new Information Technology Rules, 2021, are consistent with the right to freedom of speech and expression and the right to privacy, th...
The new Information Technology Rules, 2021, are consistent with the right to freedom of speech and expression and the right to privacy, the Centre said in a set of frequently asked questions about the guidelines on Monday.
The rules, which were introduced in February and came to effect in May, constitute a set of sweeping regulations for social media companies, streaming and digital news content, virtually bringing them under the ambit of government supervision for the first time.
In its document released on Monday, the Ministry of Electronics and Information and Technology said the new IT Rules intend to empower users in the online space and protect their dignity and rights.
“The Rules, by providing reasonable mechanisms and remedies, strive to ensure that social media platforms remain a safe space for all users, free from cyber threats, harassment and unlawful content,” the ministry said.
The government said that the new rules are clearly focused on online privacy.
“Intermediaries [such as social media platforms] are required to convey to users that they should not share information that is invasive of another person’s privacy,” it added. “Intermediaries are required to periodically inform users that in case of non-compliance with their privacy policies, the intermediary has the right to terminate access or block such information.”...
