Govt to summon Meta over Instagram ads promoting child sexual abuse material: Sources

India’s government is set to summon Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, following allegations that Instagram ads have been promoting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This move comes amid growing concerns about the spread of harmful content on major social media platforms and highlights the Indian authorities’ increasing scrutiny of tech giants operating within the country.

Sources indicate that Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, has instructed officials in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to summon Meta for an explanation regarding these alleged violations. The ministry plans to ask Meta about the measures it has taken to prevent such content from appearing on its platforms. This is the second instance this week that the Indian government has targeted Meta, having previously issued a notice regarding WhatsApp's proposed username feature.

According to reports, the controversy stems from a BBC investigation that uncovered Instagram ads promoting CSAM in India. These ads were found to direct users to Telegram channels where such content was allegedly available for purchase at prices as low as ₹99. The investigation revealed that the ads used phrases such as “rape video” and “child video,” which are clearly indicative of illegal and exploitative material. Despite Instagram’s automated moderation systems, the platform reportedly allowed one such ad to remain active even after it had been flagged by the BBC.

In response to the findings, Meta acknowledged that no system is entirely foolproof and admitted that some policy violations might slip through their review processes. However, the company emphasized that it actively detects and removes rule-breaking content once it appears online. A spokesperson for Meta stated that they continue to refine their systems to better identify and eliminate harmful content promptly.

Separately, the Indian government has also raised concerns about WhatsApp’s upcoming username feature. On Wednesday, the Centre issued a notice to Meta, cautioning that the feature could heighten risks related to online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scams, and impersonation. The government requested that Meta delay the implementation of the feature until it completes satisfactory consultations with authorities. Additionally, the Centre asked Meta to justify why legal action under the Information Technology Act and its associated rules should not be pursued against the proposed feature, citing potential facilitation of cybercrime.

WhatsApp, as a major social media intermediary, is expected to adhere to due diligence requirements outlined in the IT Act and its regulations. This latest development underscores the Indian government’s broader strategy to ensure compliance from global technology firms operating within its jurisdiction. The government has consistently emphasized the need for stringent adherence to local laws and regulations concerning data privacy, user safety, and content moderation.

Reactions from various stakeholders have yet to be fully detailed, but the summons to Meta signals a firm stance by Indian authorities on holding foreign companies accountable for content hosted on their platforms. As the situation unfolds, the government is likely to demand comprehensive responses from Meta regarding both the alleged promotion of CSAM on Instagram and the proposed changes to WhatsApp features. The outcome of these discussions could influence future regulatory actions and potentially shape policies governing social media operations in India.