The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has invited feedback from stakeholders on proposed amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, aimed at strengthening compliance mechanisms and regulatory oversight of digital platforms.
Public Consultation on Draft Amendments
The notice, dated March 30, 2026, seeks comments on draft changes to the IT Rules, 2021. The ministry said the objective is to reinforce adherence by intermediaries to clarifications, advisories and directions issued by the government, while also improving oversight of digital media content.
The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining an open, safe, trusted and accountable internet environment for users of internet-enabled services.
FCRF Launches Premier CISO Certification Amid Rising Demand for Cybersecurity Leadership
Changes to Intermediary Obligations
Among the proposed amendments under Part II of the rules are clarifications to existing provisions on data retention obligations, stating that these would operate without affecting requirements under other laws. A new provision is also proposed to mandate intermediaries to comply with ministry-issued advisories, directions, standard operating procedures and guidelines as part of due diligence requirements under Section 79.
These measures are intended to ensure clearer legal obligations and strengthen enforceability of regulatory directions issued to digital platforms.
Expanded Oversight of Digital Media Content
Under Part III, the amendments propose clarifying the applicability of content regulation provisions to intermediaries and to news and current affairs content hosted by non-publisher users. The scope of the Inter-Departmental Committee is also proposed to be expanded, allowing it to consider matters beyond formal complaints, including cases referred by the ministry.
The ministry said the amendments are largely clarificatory and procedural, aimed at improving legal certainty and strengthening oversight of intermediary-hosted content. Stakeholders have been asked to submit their feedback in a rule-wise manner by April 14, 2026.
