'AI World Very Different From IT Act Era': Ashwini Vaishnaw Signals Need For New Law

Published 9 June 2026 · india

'AI World Very Different From IT Act Era': Ashwini Vaishnaw Signals Need For New Law Published By, Last Updated: June 09, 2026, 23:37 IST Union

'AI World Very Different From IT Act Era': Ashwini Vaishnaw Signals Need For New Law Published By, Last Updated: June 09, 2026, 23:37 IST Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says India may need a new AI law beyond the IT Act 2000, with consultations underway to balance innovation and user safety. Vaishnaw said discussions with industry representatives were underway as the government examines possible regulatory approaches. (PTI file photo) Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Tuesday said India’s existing information technology law was drafted long before the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), suggesting that the country may need a new legal framework to effectively regulate the rapidly evolving technology. Speaking to PTI, Vaishnaw said the government is evaluating the issue through consultations with industry stakeholders and is mindful of the need to encourage technological advancement while safeguarding users.

Government Consulting Industry Stakeholders Upon being asked whether India is considering a separate AI law or would continue regulating the sector through provisions under the IT Act, the minister described the matter as highly complex. “It’s a very complex topic. Certain things have been done under the IT Act framework, but I do think that there is a requirement for a new law because the world of AI is very different from the world when the IT Act was enacted in 2000," the Union Minister for IT and Electronics said. Vaishnaw said discussions with industry representatives were underway as the government examines possible regulatory approaches. Global Debate On AI Safety “We are discussing with the industry…as always, our objective and approach will be to balance innovation and regulation in a manner that innovation keeps happening, while our citizens remain safe," the Minister added.

Countries across the world are grappling with questions around AI safety and accountability as the technology becomes increasingly integrated into everyday life, prompting governments to reassess existing legal and regulatory structures. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers,... Read More First Published: June 09, 2026, 23:37 IST News india 'AI World Very Different From IT Act Era': Ashwini Vaishnaw Signals Need For New Law Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s.