Why is it in the news?
MeitY notified Amendment Rules, 2026 tightening norms on synthetic media and content removal timelines.
Effective from 20 February 2026.
Category: Polity
Important Points:
● Takedown timeline reduced to 3 hours for illegal content
● Non-consensual nudity and deepfakes to be removed within 2 hours
● Defines “synthetic content” as algorithmically created/altered audio-visual content
● Minor smartphone touch-ups exempted
● Mandatory prominent labelling of AI-generated content
● Platforms must seek disclosure from users regarding AI-generated content
● Non-compliance risks loss of Safe Harbour under Section 79 of IT Act, 2000
● States can designate multiple authorised officers for takedown orders