COME UP WITH SIMPLE MECHANISM TO REMOVE PRIVATE IMAGES, VIDEOS OF WOMEN FROM INTERNET, MADRAS HIGH COURT DIRECTS CENTRE
In a landmark move aimed at safeguarding the digital dignity and privacy of women, the Madras High Court has instructed the Union Government to establish a simple and effective mechanism to facilitate the removal of private and explicit content of women from online platforms.
CASE BACKGROUND
The directive came during a hearing involving a woman who was the victim of unauthorized sharing of private images online. The court acknowledged the emotional trauma and lifelong consequences women face when such content is leaked or misused, often without any legal recourse that’s swift or accessible.
NEED FOR A VICTIM-CENTRIC APPROACH
The court observed that the current processes for content removal are often complicated, slow, and technology-heavy, making it difficult for non-tech-savvy victims to seek relief.
The Court Emphasized:
Simplified complaint mechanisms
Swift action and takedown
Strict penalties for non-compliance by platforms
Clear government oversight and accountability
SUGGESTED STEPS BY THE COURT
The Madras High Court recommended that the Centre, along with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), explore a centralized digital redressal portal, where victims can:
Lodge complaints easily
Upload screenshots or URLs
Track complaint status
Seek support services
The Court also suggested that social media platforms and search engines be legally bound to comply with takedown notices swiftly.
LEGAL CONTEXT AND CONCERNS
The court referred to:
Article 21 of the Constitution (Right to Privacy)
IT Act Sections 67 and 66E related to obscene content and privacy violations
The need to strengthen the IT Rules, 2021 in context to gendered harassment online
CENTRE’S RESPONSE AND NEXT STEPS
The Centre is expected to respond with a detailed framework that aligns with privacy protections, constitutional rights, and technological feasibility. The Madras High Court has scheduled further hearings to monitor compliance and action.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Q1: What did the Madras High Court ask the Centre to do?
The court directed the Centre to create a simple, user-friendly mechanism to remove private images and videos of women from online platforms.
Q2: Why is this significant?
It addresses the rising cases of online sexual exploitation and image-based abuse, which often go unreported due to complicated processes.
Q3: What legal provisions are involved?
The case touches on IT Act Sections 66E and 67, Article 21 of the Constitution, and evolving data privacy jurisprudence.
Q4: Will social media platforms be affected?
Yes. The court wants mandatory, quick compliance from platforms to remove flagged content involving women’s privacy violations.
Q5: Is there a timeline for the Centre’s response?
While no exact date was given, the court has asked the Centre to act promptly and present a progress report in upcoming hearings.
Published on: July 15, 2025
Published by: PAVAN
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