Center Plans Tough Crackdown on Anti-National Content Online: Jail Term Likely for Offenders
Delhi/Hyderabad, July 4 (Maxim News): In a bold move aimed at safeguarding national security, the Central government is preparing to roll out a new policy that targets anti-national content being circulated on websites and social media platforms. Under the proposed guidelines, individuals or entities posting or hosting such content may face strict legal action, including imprisonment.
According to reliable sources, top officials from Indian intelligence agencies have submitted detailed reports to the Union Home Ministry, highlighting a growing trend of online content that allegedly undermines national interests and promotes hostility towards India.
The Centre reportedly views such posts as highly dangerous, especially those supporting rival nations or instigating hatred and misinformation. Officials expressed concern over individuals who, while enjoying the rights and benefits of being Indian citizens, engage in online activities perceived as detrimental to the country’s sovereignty and unity.
Highlights of the Proposed Policy:
- Social media posts, videos, and website content deemed anti-national will be actively monitored.
- Websites hosting such material may be blocked permanently.
- Criminal proceedings, including jail terms, may be initiated against individuals responsible.
- The Ministry of Home Affairs is said to be coordinating with various departments to draft and enforce the new guidelines.
This upcoming policy is likely to empower the government to flag, remove, and penalize content that is considered to incite hatred, promote separatism, or threaten national security.
A senior official said, “There are many individuals who enjoy all the rights and freedoms in India but use those very liberties to defame the nation or back its adversaries. This behavior will no longer be tolerated.”
The move comes in the wake of rising concerns over digital misinformation, terror propaganda, and coordinated campaigns targeting the nation’s image, especially during sensitive events like elections, communal tensions, and international conflicts.
While the full framework of the policy is still under development, early reports suggest that it will cover all major digital platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and independent news/blog sites.
Public Response and Legal Considerations
The Centre is expected to ensure that the new policy balances national interest with freedom of expression, and legal experts may be consulted to avoid potential misuse.
However, civil society groups are likely to closely watch the policy rollout to ensure transparency and protection of democratic rights.
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