Role of Social Media — Legal Reforms

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021	2021	These rules replaced the IT (Intermediary Guidelines) Rules, 2011, introducing a more comprehensive framework for social media intermediaries and digital news publishers. They defined 'Significant Social Media Intermediaries' and imposed stricter due diligence, grievance redressal, and compliance officer requirements.	Significantly increased accountability for social media platforms, introduced traceability requirements (controversial), and established a three-tier regulatory mechanism for digital media, aiming to curb misinformation and hate speech more effectively.
IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2023	2023	These amendments introduced a provision for a government-mandated Fact Check Unit (FCU) to identify fake or false information related to the Central Government on social media platforms. It also clarified the due diligence requirements for intermediaries.	Further strengthened government's ability to combat misinformation, particularly concerning official information, but raised concerns about potential censorship and government overreach in determining truth, leading to ongoing legal challenges.