Himachal police asks social media platforms to overhaul compliance, moderation policies, sets 15-day deadline

In the letter, HP Police has asked for a compliance report from companies by the end of this month

The Himachal Pradesh Police has directed social media companies, data-hosting platforms and internet service providers operating in the hill state to immediately review and upgrade their compliance frameworks in line with the amended Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2025.

In a communique, dated November 15, a copy of which Moneycontrol has reviewed, the police asked platforms to review their compliance procedures, content moderation systems and user grievance redressal mechanisms. Platforms have to confirm adherence to the new rules within 15 days of receiving the letter.

Google, Meta and other social media platforms have been sent these directions. Moneycontrol has sought comments from Himachal police and the platforms and the article will be updated when they respond.

Failure to comply with takedown directions or due diligence obligations may result in intermediaries losing their safe harbour protections under Section 79 of the IT Act, 2000, the letter said.

Under Section 79, intermediaries are shielded from liability for third-party content on their platforms but this protection is contingent on compliance with due diligence requirements and lawful directions.

The withdrawal of safe harbour would expose platforms to prosecution under the IT Act as well as other laws.

The communication points to several changes introduced under the IT amendment, 2025, including stricter timelines for takedowns.

The revised regulations require intermediaries to comply with content removal orders immediately and in any case within a maximum of 36 hours. This change is aimed at streamlining the response to unlawful content and ensuring swifter online safety measures.

The Himachal government, through a separate letter on November 6, authorised senior police officials — including the Additional Director General of Police (Law & Order) and the ADGP, State CID — to issue lawful takedown directions to intermediaries under the amended rules.

The police has also asked platforms to strengthen coordination mechanisms by designating and sharing updated nodal officer details.

This, officials say, will allow for faster communication in both emergency and routine takedown situations.