India Summons Meta Over Temporary Removal of PM Modi's Video

India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has summoned Meta's global head of public policy for an explanation regarding the temporary removal of a video posted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The video, intended to reach the country's youth, was later restored.

A Meta spokesperson stated that the content was removed inadvertently and has since been reinstated. The video, posted on July 23, was Prime Minister Modi's first address to students. In the address, he outlined the central government's proposed measures to combat examination paper leaks, including the establishment of fast-track courts and stricter penalties for offenders.

This incident highlights the Indian government's deepening scrutiny of social media companies concerning content moderation and online safety. The government has intensified its oversight of various platforms throughout the year.

Further actions by Indian authorities include investigations into other social media-related incidents. A parliamentary committee on cybersecurity is scheduled to meet in August to discuss the regulation of social and digital platforms. Officials from relevant ministries, along with representatives from Google, Meta, X, and Snapchat, are expected to brief the panel.