The Central Government has proposed changes to the Information Technology Rules, 2021, aiming to increase regulation over online content and strengthen the responsibilities of intermediaries like social media platforms.

One of the key proposals is to bring user-shared news and current affairs content under the same regulatory framework as digital publishers. This means that even individuals who are not registered publishers but share news online could come under these rules.

The draft makes it clear that the rules will apply to any news or current affairs content that is uploaded, shared, or circulated on online platforms by users.

Another major change is a proposal to make it mandatory for intermediaries to follow all directions, advisories, and guidelines issued by the Ministry. This would become part of their legal responsibility under the IT Act.

The government has also suggested expanding the powers of the Inter-Departmental Committee. The committee would not only look into complaints but also take up matters directly referred by the Ministry, increasing government oversight on digital content.

According to the Ministry, these changes are mainly for clarification and to make enforcement of rules stronger. The aim is to ensure better monitoring of online content, especially news and current affairs.

The government has invited feedback from stakeholders on these proposed changes, with April 14, 2026, set as the last date to submit comments.