New Delhi, November 27: Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday emphasized the need to strengthen existing laws to prevent vulgar and obscene content on social media platforms. Speaking during question hour in the Lok Sabha, Vaishnaw addressed BJP MP Arun Govil’s concerns about the ineffectiveness of current mechanisms to regulate such content.
“There is a significant difference between the culture of our country and that of the nations from where these social media platforms originate. I urge the Parliamentary Standing Committee to deliberate on this and recommend strict laws,” Vaishnaw said.
He noted that editorial checks, which once ensured content appropriateness, are no longer in place, adding to the challenge of controlling abusive and explicit material online. The Minister called for a consensus in Parliament to draft stronger legislation addressing the misuse of social media platforms.
Govil’s questions had highlighted the issue of illegal telecasts of sexually explicit and vulgar content via social media and sought clarity on government measures to address this growing concern.
Meanwhile, Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted shortly after they began on Wednesday, with opposition members raising protests over issues including the Adani controversy, recent violence in Sambhal, and unemployment. Congress and Samajwadi Party members staged demonstrations in the Well, shouting slogans, forcing the House to adjourn until 12 noon.
