India has begun a major push to address the rising threat of deepfakes and AI driven misinformation. On October 22, 2025, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology released draft amendments to the Information Technology Rules, 2021. These proposals come at a time when generative AI tools are spreading quickly and synthetic content is becoming harder to detect, raising concerns around identity theft and coordinated misinformation campaigns.
The amendments were introduced after a Delhi High Court order in a recent case that highlighted the risks of synthetic content and the need for clearer accountability. According to legal experts, the ruling triggered the government’s move to create a structured framework for identifying and regulating AI generated material.
A key part of the draft is the definition of “synthetically generated information,” which includes any content artificially created or modified using a computer resource in a way that appears real. This brings AI generated audio, video, images and text under the same rules that apply to harmful online content. Legal analysts say the amendments mainly aim to limit the misuse of deepfake technology. Intermediaries offering tools to create or edit such content would be required to clearly label it with a permanent identifier. Significant social media intermediaries must also ask users to declare whether their uploads are synthetic and must add labels after verifying these declarations.
Some experts warn that the broad definition may cause platforms to overcorrect, potentially affecting harmless edited content. Others say the clarity is necessary to prevent misuse as deepfakes become easier to produce and share.
Another major requirement is the addition of permanent identifiers. Under the proposed Rule 3(3), platforms must embed unique markers or metadata into every piece of AI generated content. These markers must be visible or audible, covering at least 10 percent of the visual or audio content. Technology consultants say this move will help users distinguish real material from synthetic and support responsible AI use. They also stress the need for clear implementation standards.
The rules draft amendments also strengthen safe harbour protections for intermediaries. Platforms that act in good faith to remove synthetic content, either through complaints or internal detection, can retain legal protection under the IT Act. Experts say this shift introduces clear rules such as provenance disclosure and consistent labelling, helping platforms demonstrate compliance.
However, enforcement remains a challenge. Experts point out that agencies lack the tools and expertise needed to detect deepfakes early. They say India must upgrade technical capabilities or the rules will be difficult to enforce. There are also concerns around user accountability. A user may simply refuse to label synthetic content, forcing victims to approach courts for relief.
MeitY has opened the draft for public feedback until November 6, 2025. After consultations, the Ministry is expected to finalise the rules and set compliance timelines. Legal experts say meaningful industry participation is essential to ensure the rules support both technological progress and content integrity.
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