New Delhi, October 22, 2025 – The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has released a new notification, S.O. 4769(E), dated October 21, 2025, appointing two Joint Secretaries as Designated Officers under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. This notification supersedes the earlier directive issued on May 7, 2025, and aligns with the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public) Rules, 2009.
Overview of the Notification
The latest notification, published in the Gazette of India, authorizes specific officials to oversee the blocking of information accessible to the public, as permitted under the IT Act. This administrative update ensures that the process remains efficient and compliant with legal safeguards.
Newly Designated Officers
The Central Government has appointed the following officials:
- Shri Ajit Kumar, IAS (KL:2006), Joint Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, located at Electronics Niketan, 6 Central Government Offices Complex, New Delhi – 110003, as the primary Designated Officer.
- Shri Sushil Pal, ICAS (1999), Joint Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, as the alternate Designated Officer. He will assume the role during Shri Ajit Kumar’s absence due to leave, official tours, or other reasons.
Purpose and Legal Framework
Section 69A of the IT Act empowers the government to restrict public access to information to protect national security, public order, or to prevent incitement to offenses. The appointment of Designated Officers ensures that decisions regarding information blocking are made systematically, adhering to the 2009 Rules.
Significance of the Update
This change reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining robust oversight in digital governance. By designating an alternate officer, the Ministry ensures continuity in the absence of the primary officer, streamlining operations and compliance.
Impact on Digital Regulation
The appointment of experienced officers like Shri Ajit Kumar and Shri Sushil Pal underscores MeitY’s focus on effective implementation of digital policies. Stakeholders, including tech companies and content platforms, should take note of this administrative shift for coordination and regulatory compliance.
The notification, issued under file number F. No. 2(1)/2017-Pers.I (Pt.), was signed by Amitesh Kumar Sinha, Additional Secretary.
Keyword: Designated Officer
Meta Description: MeitY’s latest notification appoints Shri Ajit Kumar and Shri Sushil Pal as Designated Officers under Section 69A of the IT Act to oversee information blocking, effective October 21, 2025.