Ashwini Vaishnaw: Digital Platforms Must Comply with Indian Laws, Regardless of Global Standing

Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw has asserted that all digital platforms operating in India—including global companies such as Netflix, Meta Platforms, YouTube and X—must strictly adhere to Indian laws and constitutional provisions.

 

Addressing the media, the Minister emphasized that any company conducting business within the country’s jurisdiction is required to function in accordance with India’s legal framework. He clarified that this principle applies uniformly to domestic and international entities alike. “If a company operates in India, it must follow Indian law. There is no ambiguity on this matter,” he stated.

 

Vaishnaw noted that concerns surrounding digital content—particularly in relation to deepfake technology—are increasing and pose significant risks to individuals, children, and society at large. He underscored the need for stronger regulatory mechanisms to curb misuse of such technologies and protect public interest.

 

The Minister explained that while digital platforms often function across multiple countries, compliance with local legal and cultural frameworks remains essential. Content considered acceptable in one nation may be prohibited in another due to differences in legal standards and cultural context. He stressed that multinational technology companies must respect India’s cultural sensitivities and legal norms when offering services in the country.

 

Highlighting the issue of deepfakes, Vaishnaw described them as a serious and growing threat. He stated that advanced artificial intelligence tools are increasingly being used to create manipulated audio and video content that appears authentic but is misleading or harmful. He called for strict measures to detect, regulate, and prevent the spread of such content.

 

The government, he indicated, is actively engaging with social media and digital platforms to ensure effective compliance. Discussions are underway to establish clear accountability mechanisms, enhance technological safeguards, and strengthen enforcement measures where necessary.

 

Vaishnaw also pointed out that Parliament has already referred matters related to digital content regulation and emerging technologies to the Standing Committee on Information Technology. Recommendations from such deliberations are expected to shape future policy decisions aimed at tightening regulatory frameworks.

 

Reiterating the government’s stance, the Minister affirmed that safeguarding society from harmful digital content is a priority. He emphasized that technological innovation must go hand in hand with responsibility and compliance, ensuring that platforms do not become conduits for misinformation, exploitation, or social disruption.

 

The remarks signal a firm regulatory approach toward global technology firms operating in India, reinforcing the principle that digital growth must align with national laws, cultural values, and public safety considerations.