The National Human Rights Commission has taken cognisance of a discreet extramarital application that has reportedly crossed four million users in India and has sought an action report from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology by April 23.
The development follows a complaint flagged by Priyank Kanoongo, a member of the Commission, who said the matter was brought forward by Sewa Nyaya Utthan Foundation, a non-profit organisation working to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
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Concerns Raised Over Nature of Platform
According to the complaint, the application, identified as Gleeden, operates as a social networking platform that enables married individuals to engage in extramarital relationships. It was stated that approximately 40 lakh users in India are already using the application.
The non-profit organisation has expressed concern that the platform promotes adultery and relationships outside marriage, raising questions about its social impact and broader implications.
Allegations of Social Harm and Legal Concerns
The complaint further alleged that such applications could contribute to the breakdown of marriages and may lead to domestic abuse, while also increasing the risk of suicide. It added that platforms of this nature run contrary to the social and familial structure of the country and are inconsistent with its religious and cultural context.
The Commission has also urged the Ministry to examine whether the application’s operations are legally permissible within the existing legal framework.
User Distribution and Risk Factors Highlighted
The complaint highlighted potential risks linked to the use of such platforms, including the possibility of individuals using false identities and the exploitation of women and children gaining access to the application.
Data cited from an application-led survey indicated that around 18 percent of users are from Bengaluru, followed by Hyderabad at 17 percent, Delhi at 11 percent, Mumbai at 9 percent and Pune at 7 percent.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
