New Social Media Guidelines Introduced in Uttar Pradesh
The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has introduced a new social media policy, focusing on regulating content on platforms like Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube. This policy sets clear guidelines for handling inappropriate content and outlines strict legal consequences.
Strict Penalties for Anti-National Content
Posting content deemed anti-national now carries severe consequences under the new policy. Offenders can face penalties ranging from three years in prison to a life sentence. Previously, such cases were addressed under the Information Technology (IT) Act, particularly Sections 66E and 66F, which focus on privacy violations and cyberterrorism.
Legal Actions for Obscene or Defamatory Content
The policy also addresses the spread of obscene or defamatory material online. Those found guilty may face criminal defamation charges, highlighting the serious legal risks associated with misusing social media platforms.
Promotion of Government Initiatives
In a bid to encourage positive engagement, the policy encourages sharing content related to government schemes, initiatives, and achievements across social media. Influencers can earn significant income by promoting these initiatives, with potential earnings reaching up to Rs 8 lakh rupees per month.
Payment Limits for Influencers
The policy outlines specific payment limits for influencers on various platforms. For example, influencers on X (formerly twitter) can earn up to Rs 5 lakh per month, while those on Facebook and Instagram can earn Rs 4 lakh and Rs 3 lakh, respectively. YouTube influencers have higher earning potential, with limits set at Rs 8 lakh for videos, Rs 7 lakh for shorts, and Rs 6 lakh for podcasts.
Digital Agency ‘V-Form’ to Manage Advertisements
To streamline the promotion of government content, the policy designates ‘V-Form’ as the digital agency responsible for managing advertisements. This agency will handle the distribution of videos, tweets, posts, and reels across social media platforms.
