Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
This concept is crucial for understanding internet governance, the balance between freedom of speech and content regulation, digital rights, and the legal framework governing online platforms in India. It's a dynamic area with ongoing debates on platform accountability and government oversight.
Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, grants "safe harbour" protection to online intermediaries, shielding them from liability for third-party content hosted on their platforms, provided they adhere to certain due diligence requirements. The IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, further elaborate on these conditions, including content takedown mandates.