Government seeks answers from Meta over Instagram ads allegedly promoting child abuse content!

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has moved to summon Meta after serious concerns emerged over Instagram advertisements allegedly promoting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in India, according to government sources. IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has directed senior MeitY officials to seek an urgent explanation from the company, signalling a strong regulatory response.

Sources indicate that the ministry has taken cognisance of instances where objectionable content was either directly promoted or algorithmically amplified through paid advertisements on Instagram. Officials are expected to question Meta on its content moderation mechanisms, ad vetting processes, and compliance with Indian IT rules.

The development comes amid increasing scrutiny of social media platforms over user safety and harmful content, particularly involving minors. The government is likely to assess whether there were lapses in due diligence under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

MeitY may also push for stricter safeguards and accountability measures to prevent recurrence. Meta has yet to issue a formal response.