GeneralSource: The Hindu
MeitY Notifies Amendment Rules for Synthetic Media and Digital Content
Thursday, 12 February 2026
Read Original ArticleKey Points
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has introduced the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2026, effective from February 20, 2026. This amendment significantly tightens regulations surrounding synthetic media and content removal.
Detailed Coverage
- Drastic Reduction in Takedown Timelines: Content must be removed within 3 hours for illegal content and 2 hours for sensitive content.
- Definition of "Synthetic" Content: Defined as algorithmically created or altered audio-visual information.
- Mandatory Disclosure and Labeling: AI-generated content must be labeled; platforms must seek user disclosures.
- Loss of Safe Harbour: Non-compliance risks Safe Harbour protection under Section 79 of the IT Act.
- Administrative Flexibility for States: States can assign multiple officers for takedown orders.
- Enhances the regulatory framework for synthetic media.
- Establishes stricter guidelines for social media platforms.
- Focuses on protecting individuals from non-consensual content.
- Encourages responsible content management by platforms.
- Promotes transparency in AI-generated media.
- Ensures timely removal of harmful content.
- Addresses the challenges posed by deepfakes.
- Supports ethical standards in digital media.
- Increases accountability among intermediaries.
- Improves user trust in digital platforms.
- Aligns with global standards on digital content regulation.
General