Government Grants X Extension to Submit Report on Obscene AI Content by January 7

The government has extended the deadline for X to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) until January 7. This follows a stern warning issued to the Elon Musk-led social media platform over indecent content generated through AI-based services like Grok. X had requested more time from the IT Ministry, according to sources.

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On January 2, the IT Ministry highlighted that Grok AI, developed by X, is being misused. Users are creating fake accounts to host or share obscene images or videos of women. This misuse reflects a failure in platform safeguards and violates laws. The ministry stressed that such actions compromise women's dignity and privacy.

Government's Directive on Compliance

The ministry's directive on January 2 emphasised compliance with the IT Act and rules. It warned X against hosting or sharing content that is obscene, pornographic, or otherwise prohibited by law. Failure to comply could result in losing liability exemptions under section 79 of the IT Act.

X's Safety handle stated it will act against illegal content, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). The platform plans to remove such content, suspend accounts, and collaborate with local authorities as needed. "Anyone using or prompting Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content," it reiterated Musk's stance.

International Scrutiny and Compliance Measures

Besides India, X faces scrutiny from UK and Malaysian authorities. Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator, expressed concerns about Grok producing inappropriate images. Ofcom has contacted X to ensure compliance with UK laws and will assess potential issues for investigation.

The government instructed X to enforce user terms of service and AI usage restrictions. This includes strong deterrent measures like account suspension for violators. X must also remove or disable access to unlawful content promptly, adhering to IT Rules 2021 timelines without compromising evidence.

The ministry demanded an ATR within 72 hours of its letter issuance. The report should detail technical and organisational measures related to Grok, oversight by the Chief Compliance Officer, actions against offending content, and compliance mechanisms with Indian laws.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

The government made it clear that compliance with due diligence obligations is mandatory. Non-compliance could lead to losing liability exemptions under section 79 of the IT Act and further legal action under other laws like Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

X has been asked to demonstrate ongoing compliance with all due diligence obligations under the IT Act and IT Rules 2021. Failure to do so may result in appropriate action, including loss of liability exemption under section 79 of the IT Act.

The Centre had previously directed X to remove all vulgar and unlawful content immediately or face legal action. The ministry had initially asked for a detailed ATR within 72 hours of its directive by January 5 but later extended this deadline.

With inputs from PTI