India’s Stricter AI Social Media Rules Raise Concerns Over Digital Censorship

India has introduced tougher regulations on artificial intelligence-driven content on social media platforms, aiming to curb misinformation but raising concerns among rights groups about censorship and threats to freedom of expression.

India has announced stricter regulations governing artificial intelligence (AI) content on social media platforms in an effort to combat the growing spread of misinformation and harmful synthetic media. The new rules, set to take effect on February 20, significantly reduce the time platforms have to remove content flagged by authorities—from 36 hours to just three hours.

With more than a billion internet users, India is facing an unprecedented surge in AI-generated misinformation across platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and X. The government’s move comes amid global concerns about the misuse of AI technologies, including the creation of fake documents, deepfake videos, and sexualised imagery involving minors.

Under the updated regulations, social media platforms must permanently label AI-generated or manipulated content and deploy automated tools to prevent the spread of illegal material. The rules also extend to any content created or altered using computer resources, except for routine or good-faith editing.

However, digital rights organisations and activists have warned that the tighter controls could lead to excessive censorship and undermine free speech. Critics argue that the three-hour takedown deadline leaves little room for human review, forcing platforms to rely heavily on automated systems that may mistakenly remove legitimate content such as satire, parody, or political commentary.

The Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) described the new system as “rapid-fire censorship,” while digital rights activist Nikhil Pahwa called it “automated censorship.” Critics also noted that users are often not informed when their content is removed and that appeals processes are slow and ineffective.

Reports by international digital rights groups have further warned that the rules may encourage proactive content monitoring, leading platforms to err on the side of caution and remove lawful content to avoid penalties.

Despite these concerns, supporters argue that the regulations are necessary to address rising online hate, misinformation, and harmful AI-generated content. Recent controversies, including the misuse of AI tools to create explicit images of real people, have intensified calls for stricter oversight.

As India positions itself as a global leader in AI governance, the debate continues over how to balance technological innovation, public safety, and fundamental digital freedoms.