1 week ago
Last Updated:March 20, 2025, 18:26 IST
The government is concerned about the potential for misuse of social media platforms and AI tools, given their popularity. Hence, a need for regulation. Platform X has responded by taking legal action, filing a lawsuit against the government in the Karnataka court, alleging censorship under...Read More
The logo of Grok, a generative artificial intelligence chatbot developed by US artificial intelligence company xAI. (AFP Photo)
The government has shown the rulebook to social media platforms and AI search engines like Grok and ChatGPT. High-ranking government sources have informed News18 that all platforms and AI search engines must adhere to the country’s laws. This has reignited the debate surrounding freedom of expression versus censorship. However, the government has refuted any such allegations, emphasising the importance of self-regulation for both OTT platforms and social media companies.
Grok has recently drawn considerable attention, with opposition parties seizing the opportunity to criticise the Prime Minister and the BJP while portraying Rahul Gandhi as a true leader of the people. The government has engaged with platform X, seeking clarification on the random use of Hindi slang on Grok. The government maintains that it has no intention of suppressing Grok or any other platform, stating, “They have the freedom to operate, but within the Lakshman Rekha (boundaries)."
The Prime Minister has acknowledged the enduring presence of AI on multiple occasions. However, he has also highlighted the inherent complexity of the system, drawing an analogy to the right hand being unaware of the left hand’s actions. Nevertheless, he maintains that a certain degree of regulation is necessary.
The government is concerned about the potential for misuse of these platforms, given their popularity, particularly among young and impressionable users. Hence, a need for regulation.
Platform X has responded by taking legal action, filing a lawsuit against the government in the Karnataka court, alleging censorship under the IT Act. The act empowers the government to regulate content deemed abusive, sexually harassing, or threatening to national security.
OTT platforms have also faced government scrutiny in the past, along with YouTube content creators like Ranveer Allahabadia, whose work recently drew criticism. The ministry issued a warning to YouTube, demanding the removal of the content and sending a clear message that all platforms must comply.
The government is facing opposition backlash, with accusations of attempting to silence dissent. However, the government has firmly stated that there will be no compromise on regulations, asserting that self-regulation and freedom of expression are not mutually exclusive.
Location : First Published:March 20, 2025, 18:13 IST
News tech 'Not Censorship But Regulation': Govt Underscores Grok, ChatGPT Must Follow India's Laws
