The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has introduced amendments to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, effective from November 15, 2025. These changes aim to strengthen the framework for intermediaries under the Information Technology Act, 2000, ensuring greater transparency, accountability, and proportionality in the removal of unlawful online content.
Background of the IT Rules
The IT Rules, 2021, initially notified on February 25, 2021, and amended in October 2022 and April 2023, outline due diligence obligations for intermediaries, including social media platforms, to promote online safety, security, and accountability. Rule 3(1)(d) mandates intermediaries to remove unlawful content upon receiving actual knowledge through a court order or government notification. A recent review by MeitY identified the need for enhanced safeguards to ensure senior-level accountability and precise content removal processes.
Key Amendments to Rule 3(1)(d)
Senior-Level Authorization
Notifications for content removal can now only be issued by a senior officer, at least at the rank of Joint Secretary or equivalent, or a Director if no such rank exists. For police authorities, only an officer at least at the rank of Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), with special authorization, can issue such directives.
Reasoned Intimation
The amendments replace vague notifications with detailed, reasoned intimations. These must specify the legal basis, statutory provision, nature of the unlawful act, and the exact URL or identifier of the content to be removed, aligning with the “actual knowledge” requirement under Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act.
Periodic Review Mechanism
All directives issued under Rule 3(1)(d) will undergo a monthly review by an officer at least at the rank of Secretary, ensuring that actions remain necessary, proportionate, and lawful.
Balancing Rights and Responsibilities
The amendments balance citizens’ constitutional rights with the state’s regulatory powers, ensuring transparent enforcement without arbitrary restrictions.
Expected Impact of the Amendments
Enhanced Transparency and Accountability: Clear guidelines on issuing directives and mandatory reviews introduce robust checks and balances.
Clarity for Intermediaries: Detailed intimations provide intermediaries with precise guidance for lawful compliance.
Proportionality and Safeguards: The reforms uphold natural justice principles while enforcing lawful restrictions under the IT Act, 2000.
Further Information
For more details, refer to the Gazette Notification and the consolidated IT Rules, 2021, as amended up to October 2025, available on the e-Gazette or the MeitY website.
Keyword: IT Rules 2025
Meta Description: The Ministry of Electronics and IT has notified amendments to the IT Rules, 2021, effective November 15, 2025, to enhance transparency, accountability, and proportionality in removing unlawful online content.