New Delhi: The Information and Broadcasting Ministry is examining the existing statutory provisions and the need for a new legal framework to regulate “harmful” content on digital platforms, indicating the government’s move to sharpen its vigil over them following the outcry over Ranveer Allahbadia’s crass comments on a YouTube programme.
In its reply to a parliamentary panel’s communication over the issue, the ministry said there is a growing concern in the society that the constitutional right of “freedom of expression is being misused to showcase obscene and violent content on digital platforms”.
It told the Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology headed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey that while certain provisions exist under the current laws, there is a growing demand for a stricter and effective legal framework to regulate such harmful content.
It said, “This ministry has taken note of these developments and is in process of examining current statutory provisions and need for a new legal framework.”
The ministry said that many high courts and the Supreme Court, MPs and statutory bodies like the National Commission of Women have spoken on the issue, which has made headlines after the tasteless comments of social media influencer Allahbadia drew wide condemnation.
Criminal cases have been registered against him, and his apology has done little to damp down the controversy. While the Supreme Court granted him protection from arrest, it also made very critical observations at his comments, deeming them vulgar and a product of “dirty mind” which has “shamed” the society.
The apex court also flagged the “vacuum” in law when it comes to content on platforms such as YouTube and said “all kinds of things were going on”.
The ministry told the committee that it will submit a detailed note after due deliberations.
