Parliamentary Panel Questions Meta Officials Over PM Modi Video Removal

Facebook parent company Meta faced tough questioning from members of a Parliamentary Standing Committee after the temporary removal of a video featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with lawmakers reportedly stating that an apology alone would not be sufficient. The meeting, attended by representatives from Meta, Google, YouTube, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and the Union Home Ministry, focused on concerns related to content moderation, algorithmic processes, accountability and public order. The discussion also covered the handling of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on social media platforms.

According to sources familiar with the meeting, a senior BJP Member of Parliament questioned Meta officials over the removal of the Prime Minister's video, in which Narendra Modi addressed young people and promised stringent action against examination paper leaks. The MP reportedly sought answers on who authorised the removal, why the video was taken down while other objectionable content remained accessible, and who should be held accountable for the decision. The issue was raised before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology, chaired by Nishikant Dubey.

Sources said Meta acknowledged the incident during the meeting, expressing regret and offering an apology. However, lawmakers reportedly maintained that the matter extended beyond a simple apology, insisting that accountability be established and appropriate legal action considered wherever necessary. The MP also questioned what safeguards exist for ordinary Indian social media users if even content posted by the country's Prime Minister could be removed without adequate explanation.

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The latest developments follow action taken by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology last week, when it summoned Meta's global team to explain issues related to algorithmic bias, the functioning of the platform's recommendation systems and their potential impact on public order. Meta had earlier attributed the removal of the Prime Minister's video to a technical glitch. However, government sources indicated that MeitY considered the explanation inadequate and sought further clarification from the company.

The meeting also addressed broader concerns about harmful content on digital platforms, including the spread of child sexual abuse material and the responsibilities of social media companies in preventing such content. Lawmakers reportedly emphasised the need for stronger accountability mechanisms and greater transparency in how platforms enforce moderation policies, particularly in cases involving high-profile public figures and content of national importance.

Separately, the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police have registered cases against Meta India head Arun Srinivas and certain Facebook and Instagram accounts over allegations involving morphed and AI-generated content targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The developments add to increasing regulatory scrutiny of major technology companies in India, with authorities seeking greater transparency and accountability over content moderation practices, algorithmic decision-making and compliance with Indian laws.

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