InternationalThe Hindu
Why is NCPCR investigating Meta, Instagram?
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has summoned Meta and Instagram over concerns related to child safety and data protection on social media platforms. The investigation focuses on whether these platforms comply with Indian laws protecting children's rights, including the POCSO Act and the DPDP Act 2023. This development is significant for exams as it highlights the constitutional and statutory powers of NCPCR, the regulatory framework for social media, and emerging issues in cyber law and child rights.
Exam-ready takeaways
- NCPCR is a statutory body established under the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005.
- NCPCR can summon social media platforms under Section 14 of the CPCR Act, which grants it civil court powers for inquiring into child rights violations.
- The investigation relates to potential violations of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023.
- Meta Platforms Inc. owns Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook, and has faced global scrutiny over child safety, including a 2023 US Congressional hearing.
- NCPCR's jurisdiction extends to all of India, and it can recommend legal action against platforms for non-compliance with child protection laws.
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