Science TechnologyWednesday, 8 July 2026·The Hindu - Science
MeitY notice to Meta over Instagram ads linked to child sexual abuse material
On July 2026, MeitY asked Meta to block Instagram ads and content allegedly promoting child sexual exploitative material and sought a reply within seven days.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In July 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) directed Meta to disable Instagram advertisements and content allegedly promoting Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) and sought a detailed explanation within 7 days.
Key specifics
- The issue surfaced after a BBC Eye investigation into paid Instagram advertisements in India.
- Meta said it has a “zero tolerance policy” for CSAM and serves about 3.5 billion users.
- Under the IT Act, publishing or transmitting obscene material depicting children in sexually explicit acts in electronic form is punishable.
- The IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules require removal of such content within 24 hours after actual knowledge or valid complaint.
- The POCSO Act criminalises creating, possessing, storing, transmitting, distributing or facilitating child sexual abuse material.
Exam lens
MCQ focus: cyber law, intermediary liability, and child protection; remember MeitY, Meta, 7 days, 24 hours, IT Act, IT Rules, and POCSO Act. TNPSC may ask which law and rule framework governs takedown obligations for harmful online content.