Parliamentary panel demands report on action on social media platforms over 'anti-national' content

In the wake of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology has raised concerns over the role of certain social media platforms and influencers. The committee has called on the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to furnish details on the actions being taken to address content that allegedly threatens national security. The committee has requested the government to outline measures under the IT Act 2000 and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

The attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including several tourists, has heightened national security concerns. Authorities have attributed the attack to Pakistan-backed terrorist groups operating in the region. In the aftermath, the government has identified several social media handles and influencers who are believed to have spread content that could incite violence or disturb public order. This has prompted the committee to push for prompt action, with a request for a response by May 8, 2025.

The committee’s directive is aimed at ensuring accountability from online platforms and social media influencers. It seeks a comprehensive report on the actions taken against platforms that have been found to be disseminating inflammatory or misleading content in violation of national security regulations. Several social media accounts have already been restricted or banned for their involvement in spreading divisive narratives related to the attack.

In response to these concerns, the committee has urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to take necessary steps under the provisions of the IT Act 2000 and Digital Media Ethics Code. The committee is specifically concerned with platforms that may be facilitating the spread of content that threatens national unity and safety. The government has been encouraged to intensify its efforts to regulate content that could fuel further violence or unrest.

The move reflects the growing emphasis on the role of digital platforms in maintaining public order and security. It underscores the government's commitment to addressing the misuse of digital spaces and ensuring that they do not become tools for spreading hate or violence. The ministries are expected to report back to the committee with detailed information on the measures being implemented to tackle these issues.