Media bodies unite against draft IT Rules, demand withdrawal

Six major journalistic organizations in Delhi met at the Press Club of India on Saturday, to oppose the government's draft Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Second Amendment Rules, 2026. The meeting was attended by organisations like DIGIPUB News India Foundation, Editors Guild of India, Indian Women Press Corp, Network of Women in Media, India and Delhi Union of Journalists.

The organizations demanded the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) completely withdraw the new draft amendments to the IT Rules (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) for 2026. They said these rules pose a serious threat to press freedom and freedom of speech.

Speakers at the meeting specifically expressed concern that the new rules give the government excessive powers to remove or block content. They alleged that this could lead to arbitrary removal of news or content, which would impact the work of journalists.

The organizations also said the government should strictly follow the procedures laid down under the IT Act , 2000 , before blocking any content . They also demanded the removal of certain provisions of the old rules, which they believe lead to action without accountability.

MeitY extends deadline for feedback on Draft IT Rules Amendments to April 29.

Additionally, questions were raised about the "Sahyog Portal." Organizations stated that the portal operates without proper legal basis and should be stopped immediately.

A major concern at this meeting was also raised regarding independent creators. Journalist organizations say that those running small YouTube channels, podcasts, or newsletters will be most affected by these rules, as it could be financially difficult for them to comply with such strict regulations.

At the end of the meeting, the organizations decided to raise their voice against these rules and garner support from MPs and others. It was also appealed to the government that before making any such law, advice should be taken from journalist organizations and other concerned parties, so that the freedom of the press is not affected.