The Indian government has introduced stronger regulations on content created or modified using artificial intelligence (AI) to protect users from misinformation, deepfakes, harmful material, and other risks posed by synthetic media. These rules are part of the amended Information technology (IT) (Intermediary Guidelines and wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital media Ethics Code) Rules, 2026, and they came into force from 20 February 2026.
The message to users and creators is simple but critical: if you create, share, or publish AI‑generated content — whether text, image, video, or audio — you now have responsibilities under law. With AI tools becoming widespread, this step is aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability and responsible use.
📌 1. What Counts as AI‑Generated Content?
Under the new rules, “synthetically generated information” means content that is created or edited using AI tools and appears real — be it:
- Deepfake videos and images
- AI‑generated audio or voices
- Text generated by AI that looks like human writing
- Any synthetic modification of visuals or sounds that may mislead viewers
Basic edits like cropping, colour correction, subtitles, document formatting, or accessibility tweaks are not included, as long as they don’t change meaning or create false information.
🧾 2. Mandatory Labelling and Declarations
If content is generated or altered using AI, you must now label it clearly so that audiences can immediately tell it’s synthetic. Platforms and creators must:
✔ Ask users to declare whether content is AI‑generated
✔ Use technology to verify the declaration
✔ Clearly label such content before showing it to others
✔ Embed traceable metadata or technical markers where possible
This helps users identify fake or manipulated media and protects against deception.
🕒 3. Faster Takedowns for Harmful AI Content
To reduce the spread of harmful or unlawful AI content:
- Platforms must act on a **government or court takedown order within 3 hours, down from 36 hours earlier.
- Response time for urgent complaints is also shortened.
This applies to AI content that is illegal, offensive, sexually exploitative, or used for misinformation.
🚫 4. Illegal Uses of AI Content Are Now Clearly Penalised
AI content that is created or used for harmful activities is treated just like any other illegal content. This includes synthetic material involving:
- Child sexual abuse or non‑consensual intimate images
- Fake documents or false records
- Misleading or defamatory impersonations
- Misinformation that threatens safety or public trust
Platforms must block such content; failing to do so can expose them (and possibly the users who shared it) to penalties under indian law.
👥 5. What This Means for Content Creators
If you use AI tools such as generative text, images, voice clones, or video makers:
🔹 Be Transparent
Always disclose when a piece of content is AI‑generated or AI‑modified.
🔹 Follow Platform Guidelines
Many social media sites now require you to label synthetic posts properly — this isn’t optional.
🔹 Avoid Harmful or Deceptive Uses
Do not publish AI content that could mislead, defame, or harm others — because the law now treats such content as unlawful.
🔹 Understand Penalties
Uploading dangerous or criminal AI content could lead to account restrictions and legal consequences under cybercrime provisions.
📣 6. Why the government Took This Step
As AI tools make it easier than ever for anyone to create realistic synthetic media, authorities are concerned about:
- Deepfake videos or voices influencing public opinion
- Misinformation spreading rapidly online
- Harmful or explicit material made using AI
- Fake identities and fraudulent content
By mandating labelling, speeding up takedowns, and holding platforms accountable, the government aims to improve wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital safety and media authenticity.
🧠 Final Takeaway: Use AI Responsibly
AI is a powerful creative and productivity tool — but under the new rules, you must use it with caution:
✔ Always label AI content transparently
✔ Don’t share harmful or misleading synthetic media
✔ Comply with platform and legal requirements
✔ Stay updated on evolving wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital governance rules
Following these steps helps protect you, your audience, and the broader online community from the risks of misinformation and abuse in the age of AI.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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