New Indian social media rules could threaten free expression, critics warn

New Delhi accused the big tech firms of ‘double standards’ as it announced the new regulations. — AFP

NEW DELHI: Internet freedom advocates on Feb 26 warned new Indian social media regulations could pose a threat to freedom of expression, after New Delhi announced plans for tough new rules that could force platforms to remove content it deems objectionable.

Under the new regulations – unveiled on Thursday and due to come into force in three months – social media platforms, online streaming services and digital news services could be forced to remove content 36 hours after a complaint is made.