In a recent development, the Indian government has announced new guidelines for social media platforms and digital news outlets in the country. The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 require social media companies like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp to appoint a chief compliance officer, a nodal contact person for 24×7 coordination with law enforcement agencies, and a resident grievance officer. These rules aim to regulate digital content and prevent its misuse. Additionally, the guidelines mandate social media platforms to remove content within 36 hours of receiving a legal order. Failure to comply with the rules could result in these platforms losing their intermediary status, making them liable for criminal action in case of complaints. The move is seen as an attempt to hold tech giants accountable and ensure a safer online environment. The rules also require digital news platforms to adhere to the Press Council of India’s norms and establish a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism. The guidelines have sparked a debate on freedom of expression versus regulation in India, with some lauding the government’s efforts to curb misinformation and others expressing concerns about censorship. The implementation of these rules is expected to bring about significant changes in the digital landscape of the country.