Govt presses Meta on sexual abuse content, deepfakes as talks continue
The government’s discussions with Meta over content moderation, deepfakes and platform algorithms are continuing, with sources stressing that the company’s platforms operating in India must
The government’s discussions with Meta over content moderation, deepfakes and platform algorithms are continuing, with sources stressing that the company’s platforms operating in India must comply with Indian laws and regulations rather than rely solely on global content policies. The talks have gone through three rounds so far, with another round expected in the coming week. Government sources clarified that the discussions do not amount to a direction to Meta to completely overhaul its algorithms. Read Full Story Instead, the focus is on ensuring that the company’s content policies, moderation systems and enforcement mechanisms comply with India’s legal and regulatory framework.
ZERO TOLERANCE ON CSAM The government has reiterated its zero-tolerance approach towards Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). Officials have conveyed that such content cannot be allowed to remain on Meta’s platforms and have sought stronger, proactive mechanisms to identify, remove and prevent its circulation. Sources said the emphasis was on concrete action rather than assurances or apologies. HUMAN OVERSIGHT IN DEEPFAKE CASES Deepfake detection has also emerged as a key area of discussion. Officials raised concerns that genuine content posted through authorised or verified accounts could be incorrectly classified as synthetic. The government has therefore stressed the need for a “human-in-the-loop” mechanism, particularly in sensitive cases, rather than relying entirely on automated systems.
SAFEGUARDS AGAINST REPEAT CIRCULATION Meta has also been asked how it plans to ensure that synthetic content identified and removed as a deepfake does not subsequently reappear on its platforms. Officials have sought greater clarity on mechanisms to prevent previously flagged material from being re-uploaded, resurfacing or receiving further algorithmic amplification. MeitY has also questioned Meta over its recommendation and virality systems, including why users are sometimes shown content that does not correspond with their stated interests. Officials have also sought an explanation for how synthetically generated material can continue to gain traction through platform recommendations even after concerns have been raised about such content.
INDIA-SPECIFIC MODERATION A CONCERN Government sources have also stressed the need for Meta’s moderation systems to better understand Indian languages, cultural nuances and local sensitivities. According to officials, moderation frameworks designed primarily by teams outside India may not always adequately capture the country’s complex linguistic and cultural context. The latest discussions follow technical-level meetings between Meta representatives and MeitY officials, during which the company explained aspects of its existing systems for dealing with harmful and synthetic content. Ends
The BriefWire