NHRC investigates Instagram ads allegedly promoting child abuse material

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has demanded Action Taken Reports from India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and the Delhi Police regarding allegations that paid advertisements on Instagram promoted Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

The investigation follows reports from the BBC World Service alleging that Instagram ads used explicit terms to redirect users to Telegram channels where such material was allegedly sold. The NHRC is examining whether Meta’s use of AI and algorithmic systems brings the company under specific regulatory purviews for online curated content under the Information Technology Rules, 2021.

The Commission noted that if the allegations are proven, they represent grave concerns involving organized criminal activity, the monetization of child exploitation, and failures in intermediary due diligence and content moderation. The probe will look into potential violations of the POCSO Act and the Information Technology Act, focusing on tracing financial trails and identifying those involved.