Vaishnaw calls for stricter laws to curb vulgar content on social media

New Delhi: Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, calls for the need for stricter regulations to control inappropriate and vulgar content on social media platforms. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Vaishnaw underscored that the current legal framework requires enhancement to address the growing challenges posed by unregulated online content.

During the Question Hour, Vaishnaw responded to BJP MP Arun Govil’s questions regarding the efficacy of current mechanisms for monitoring and preventing the illegal broadcast of obscene and sex-related content. Vaishnaw acknowledged that while social media has become a significant avenue for freedom of the press, it has also become a platform susceptible to misuse, which undermines content standards.

He pointed out that previous editorial oversight ensured that content was assessed for appropriateness, but such checks have diminished over time. “Today, social media is uncontrolled and there is vulgar content,” Vaishnaw said, emphasizing the necessity of updating existing laws to curb such issues effectively.

The minister called on the Parliamentary Standing Committee to take up the matter and work towards building consensus on more stringent legislation to tackle the problem. The proposal aims to enhance safeguards and hold social media platforms more accountable for content shared on their networks.