The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a notice to Meta, directing the company to immediately remove Instagram advertisements and content allegedly promoting or facilitating access to child sexual exploitation and abuse material (CSEAM) in India.
The action highlights the government’s focus on tackling illegal online content and strengthening child safety across digital platforms.
Government Directs Immediate Removal of Harmful Content
According to the notice, MeitY instructed Meta to disable all Instagram advertisements and content that allegedly promote or facilitate access to child sexual exploitation and abuse material.
The ministry said such content must be removed without delay to help ensure a safer online environment for children and other users.
Meta Asked to Respond Within Seven Days
Along with the removal directive, the Centre has given Meta seven days to submit a detailed explanation regarding the issue.
The notice seeks clarification from the company on the reported advertisements and the steps it plans to take to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Focus on Online Child Safety
The government’s latest action underscores its continued efforts to combat the circulation of illegal and harmful content on social media platforms.
Authorities have increasingly emphasised the responsibility of digital platforms to detect, remove and prevent content related to child sexual exploitation and abuse while complying with Indian laws.
As of now, Meta has been asked to respond to the notice within the stipulated seven-day period.
