MeitY Issues Notice to Meta, Seeks Response Within Seven Days Over Harmful Instagram Advertisements

The Government of India has issued a notice to Meta over reports that certain paid advertisements on Instagram allegedly promoted or facilitated content related to child sexual exploitation. According to official sources, the government has directed the company to immediately remove such content and explain the steps being taken to prevent similar violations in the future.

The action reflects the government's increasing focus on strengthening online child safety and ensuring that digital platforms comply with Indian laws governing harmful and illegal content.

MeitY Directs Immediate Removal of Harmful Content

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has instructed Meta to remove all Instagram advertisements and content that allegedly promote, enable, or provide access to material related to child sexual exploitation.

According to sources, the notice was issued after concerns were raised regarding paid advertisements appearing on the platform. The ministry has emphasized that online platforms are responsible for ensuring that illegal or harmful content is detected and removed promptly.

Meta Asked to Respond Within Seven Days

The government has given Meta seven days to submit its response explaining the measures it has taken and the safeguards it plans to implement to prevent similar incidents.

Officials have indicated that failure to provide a satisfactory response or comply with the notice could invite action under applicable Indian laws, including:

• The Information Technology Act

• The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act

The government has not publicly disclosed further details regarding the specific advertisements under investigation.

Government Continues to Tighten Oversight of Digital Platforms

The latest notice is part of a broader effort by Indian authorities to strengthen oversight of major digital platforms operating in the country.

In recent months, the government has taken action against various online services over issues related to illegal or harmful content. Authorities have emphasized that social media companies and messaging platforms are expected to maintain effective moderation systems and respond quickly to reports involving public safety or unlawful material.

Earlier Action Against Telegram

Before issuing the notice to Meta, the government had also directed Telegram to strengthen measures against the circulation of pirated movies and unauthorized OTT content on its platform.

These actions indicate a wider regulatory approach aimed at improving compliance among digital intermediaries and ensuring that online services operate within India's legal framework.

Focus on Child Safety Online

Protecting children from online exploitation remains a key priority for Indian authorities. Officials have repeatedly stated that technology companies must use stronger content moderation tools, faster reporting mechanisms, and more effective detection systems to identify and remove illegal material before it reaches users.

The latest notice reinforces the government's expectation that social media platforms actively monitor advertisements as well as user-generated content to prevent misuse of their services.

What Happens Next?

Meta is expected to review the government's notice and submit its response within the prescribed seven-day period. The company may also outline any corrective measures, policy changes, or technological improvements introduced to address the concerns raised by the ministry.

Depending on the response and subsequent findings, authorities may decide whether any further regulatory or legal action is necessary.

Disclaimer: This article is based on information reported by official sources and public statements. The allegations mentioned are subject to regulatory review, and no final legal determination has been announced at the time of writing.