Updated IT Rules for Illegal Contents effective 15th Nov 2025

Updated IT Rules provide Clearer & Fairer Content Takedowns.

The Government of India has revised the IT Rules, 2021, which dictate how online platforms, including social media companies, must handle requests to remove unlawful content. These changes will take effect on November 15, 2025.

Key Improvements to the Takedown Process

The updated rules introduce three significant enhancements designed to improve transparency and accountability: 

1. Senior-Level Approval:

Any directive for an online platform to remove content must now be

approved by a senior government officer

2. Clarity and Specificity:

Takedown orders must

clearly explain why the content is considered unlawful and precisely identify the post that needs to be removed, eliminating vague or arbitrary requests.

3. Monthly Review:

The government commits to a

monthly review of all content removal directions to ensure they are being used fairly and responsibly

Goal: Stronger Online Governance

These amendments aim to build public trust in India's management of harmful or illegal online content by making regulatory decisions clearer and reducing the potential for misuse. By strengtheningtransparency, accountability, and review , the government is working to maintain asafer digital environment—especially against misinformation, fraud, and threats to public order—while upholding principles of fairness and due process.