The Karnataka State Policy and Planning Commission has formally submitted the “Karnataka Responsible Social Media & Digital Safety Bill, 2026”, marking a crucial step toward regulating online platforms and safeguarding citizens against digital harm.
According to the proposal, the Bill establishes a balanced regulatory framework that protects freedom of expression, ensures accountability, and promotes responsible digital citizenship. The draft legislation focuses the dangers of misinformation, AI-generated deepfakes, and provocative narratives that can incite unrest. It acknowledges the growing influence of social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube in shaping public opinion and behaviour.
The Bill seeks to balance innovation with regulation by ensuring safe and responsible use of social media, preventing the spread of harmful misinformation, protecting the youth and vulnerable communities, promoting digital literacy and fact-checking and establishing accountability for digital platforms.
The Bill proposes the creation of the “Karnataka Digital Safety & Social Media Regulatory Authority (KDSSMRA),” which will comprise officials from IT, Home, Law, Education, Public Health, and cybersecurity experts. The Authority will monitor harmful content trends, issue advisories, coordinate with law enforcement, and promote awareness campaigns.
Penalties include monetary fines, suspension of services for non-compliant platforms, and legal action against individuals spreading harmful deepfakes or misinformation.
See What’s Next in Tech With the Fast Forward Newsletter
Tweets From @varindiamag
Nothing to see here - yet
When they Tweet, their Tweets will show up here.
