Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday emphasized the need for stricter laws to curb vulgar content on social media platforms. Speaking during the Question Hour in the Lok Sabha, Vaishnaw responded to BJP MP Arun Govil's concerns about the inadequacy of existing mechanisms to regulate objectionable and abusive content online.
Vaishnaw stated, "There is a significant cultural difference between our country and the nations where these social media platforms originate. I recommend that the Parliamentary Standing Committee address this issue and frame stricter laws to safeguard our cultural values."
Call for Stricter Regulations
The minister acknowledged the lack of effective editorial checks on social media platforms, which previously served as a barrier to inappropriate content. He stressed the importance of updating current regulations to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
"Earlier, editorial checks helped determine whether content was appropriate or not. Those mechanisms have disappeared. This makes it imperative to strengthen our existing laws to prevent the misuse of social media," he added.
Vaishnaw called for consensus within Parliament to draft robust legislation aimed at curbing the spread of vulgar and sex-related content on these platforms.
Opposition Protests Overshadow Proceedings
Despite the importance of the issue, Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted by protests from Opposition members. Their demands included discussions on the Adani controversy and recent violence in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district. Congress and Samajwadi Party members shouted slogans and entered the Well of the House, forcing Speaker Om Birla to adjourn the session until noon.
Vaishnaw?s remarks come amid growing concerns about the unchecked spread of inappropriate content online and its impact on Indian society. The Parliamentary Standing Committee is expected to deliberate on the issue and propose necessary amendments to the existing laws.
This development underscores the government?s focus on striking a balance between protecting freedom of expression and maintaining cultural values in the digital age.
