The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is reportedly preparing a fresh amendment to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, aiming to bring State and Central governments under a new “accountability framework”. The proposed change seeks to ensure that official government entities and departments adhere to the same standards of transparency and responsibility as private platforms when handling online information.
Ensuring Transparency in Government Digital Conduct
The amendment focuses on preventing misuse of official digital platforms, such as spreading misinformation, unauthorized data collection, or political propaganda. It is expected to mandate record-keeping and content verification measures for government social media accounts and digital communication channels. This marks a significant step toward equal accountability in the digital ecosystem, where both private intermediaries and government bodies must comply with ethical and factual communication standards.
Stronger Oversight Through IT Ministry’s Proposed Guidelines
According to sources, MeitY plans to set up an independent oversight mechanism to monitor government departments’ online activity. The proposal could also include a grievance redressal framework, allowing citizens to report misleading or inappropriate content posted by government accounts. This move is part of a larger effort to build public trust in official information sources and prevent the weaponization of digital media by public authorities.
Industry and Legal Experts Weigh In
Digital rights advocates and policy experts have welcomed the idea, citing that it bridges a crucial gap in India’s digital accountability structure. However, some warn that the amendment must clearly define “accountability” to avoid overlap or conflict with existing laws governing public communication and data privacy. Experts emphasize the need for independent oversight rather than self-regulation by government departments.
Background: IT Rules 2021 and Their Evolution
Initially framed to regulate intermediaries, social media platforms, and digital news outlets, the IT Rules 2021 have undergone multiple amendments to enhance transparency and user safety. Earlier revisions strengthened fact-checking mechanisms and established Grievance Appellate Committees (GACs). This new proposed update would be the first to extend accountability directly to government agencies, marking a significant policy shift in India’s digital governance landscape.
What Lies Ahead
The draft amendment is expected to be released for public consultation in the coming weeks. Once finalized, it could set a precedent for digital accountability among public institutions, reinforcing India’s commitment to ethical governance in the information age.