India’s New SOPs to Combat Non-Consensual Intimate Images
In a landmark step to curb cyber exploitation, the Indian government has rolled out Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to swiftly remove non-consensual intimate images from the internet. The guidelines, issued by the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), streamline reporting mechanisms for victims and mandate faster content removal by platforms.
Why This Move Matters
Non-consensual sharing of private images (often called “revenge porn“) has surged, causing severe emotional trauma and reputational harm. Existing laws like the IT Act, 2000, and IPC Sections 66E, 67A, and 354D lacked clear enforcement protocols, leaving victims stranded. The new SOPs fill this gap with a structured redressal system.
5 Key Highlights of the SOPs
- 24/7 Grievance Officers
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Platforms must appoint officers to acknowledge complaints within 24 hours and act within 48 hours.
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Fast-Track Takedowns
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Reported content must be disabled in 24 hours and permanently removed in 48 hours. Automated tools will trace and delete duplicates.
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Evidence Preservation
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Platforms must retain data for 180 days to aid police investigations.
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Victim Anonymity
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Complainants’ identities will stay confidential to prevent retaliation. Reports can be filed via the Cyber Crime Portal or helplines.
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Strict Penalties
- Non-compliance may invoke IT Act Section 79, holding platforms liable for negligence.
How to Report Non-Consensual Content
- Online Portal: File complaints at cybercrime.gov.in.
- Helpline: Call 1930 for immediate assistance.
- Legal Action: Approach local police under IPC Sections 66E, 67A, or 354D.
Challenges Ahead
- Global Compliance: Ensuring Meta, X, and Telegram adhere to Indian rules.
- Rural Awareness: Bridging the knowledge gap in smaller towns.
- Faster Justice: Strengthening cyber cells and judicial processes.
Digital rights experts applaud the move but stress the need for public awareness campaigns. “Laws alone won’t suffice—we must destigmatize victims,” says cyberlaw specialist Pavan Duggal.
Final Word
India’s SOPs signal a zero-tolerance stance against online exploitation. As technology evolves, continuous policy upgrades will be vital. For now, victims have a clearer path to justice—and platforms face stricter accountability.
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