Current development ·
IT Rules amended to regulate AI-generated content
Amendments to the IT Rules, 2021, notified on 10 February and in force from 20 February 2026, define 'synthetically generated information' and require prominent labelling and faster action by platforms.
What changed
MeitY notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2026 on 10 February 2026, in force from 20 February 2026. They define synthetically generated information: audio, visual or audio-visual content created or altered by a computer so that it appears real. Text-only content falls outside the definition. Lawful synthetic content must be prominently labelled. Significant social media intermediaries must ask users to declare synthetic content and verify those declarations. Takedown timelines are shortened. Good-faith uses such as routine editing, translation and accessibility are excluded.
Foundation connections
Read media and social networking sites and risk and governance.
Exam use and limits
- Prelims: The rules are made under the IT Act, 2000. Safe harbour sits in Section 79.
- Mains: Weigh deepfake harms against free speech, the reliability of detection tools, and compelled labelling.
Source: Bar & Bench