Panel Chair Demands Zuckerberg Apology Over PM Modi Video Removal
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Chair of a Parliamentary Committee, Nishikant Dubey, has publicly demanded an apology from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg for removing a video of Prime Minister Modi. He warned that failure to apologize could lead to withdrawal of Meta's safe harbour protection under Section 79 of the IT Act, escalating tensions between the Indian government and social media platforms.
Background
Section 79 of India's Information Technology Act, 2000, provides 'safe harbour' immunity to intermediaries (like social media platforms) from liability for user-generated content, provided they comply with due diligence and other legal requirements. This provision has been a point of contention, with the government seeking greater accountability from platforms.
Key facts
Nishikant Dubey is the Chair of a Parliamentary Committee.
He demanded an apology from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg for removing a video of PM Modi.
Dubey warned that if no apology is given, Meta's safe harbour protection under Section 79 of the IT Act should be withdrawn.
The video removal pertains to content posted by the Prime Minister, though specifics are not provided in the source.
The demand highlights ongoing friction between the Indian government and social media platforms over content moderation.
Prelims pointers
- Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000
- Safe harbour provision
- Information Technology Act, 2000
- Meta (formerly Facebook)
- Parliamentary Committee
- Nishikant Dubey
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of safe harbour provisions in regulating social media platforms in India.
- Critically examine the balance between freedom of speech and regulation of online content.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight on social media companies operating in India.