Bengaluru: Karnataka’s proposed digital safety law aims to tighten regulation of social media platforms with a specific focus on artificial intelligence (AI), faster content moderation, and enhanced user protections, according to a draft submitted to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The draft bill represents a significant shift towards responsible digital citizenship in the era of AI. “If everything goes to plan, it will be India’s first state-level, AI-compliant, citizen-centric digital safety framework,” said S Mohanadass Hegde, a member of the Karnataka State Policy and Planning Commission (KSPPC).
A key highlight of the bill is its emphasis on AI-generated content and deepfakes. It proposes mandatory labeling of such content, which would be supported by clear legal definitions and penalties for misuse. The draft also introduces time-bound accountability, requiring platforms to act on harmful content within 24 to 48 hours, shifting regulation from advisory to enforceable action. The Karnataka Responsible Social Media & Digital Safety Bill, 2026, developed by the KSPPC, will undergo vetting by the state’s legal department before being considered for introduction in the monsoon session of the state legislature, scheduled for June to July.
This draft marks a departure from existing central laws such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the IT Rules, 2021, by proposing a state-level regulatory framework that emphasizes citizen-focused safeguards. The central Information Technology Act provides the legal structure for digital transactions in India and defines cyber offenses and penalties, while the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, build upon this framework by requiring online platforms to maintain due diligence, remove unlawful content promptly, and ensure accountability through compliance measures.
The proposed Karnataka Digital Safety & Social Media Regulatory Authority will be tasked with overseeing compliance and responding to emerging digital risks. “A localized authority can respond faster to emerging digital threats and region-specific issues,” Hegde explained. For users, the framework guarantees the right to report harmful content, access time-bound grievance redressal, and seek protection against harassment and misinformation.
Significantly, the proposal emphasizes prevention through education. It includes a digital awareness and media literacy program aimed at promoting fact-checking, critical thinking, and responsible online behavior. “This is a preventive approach—educating users rather than only punishing violations,” noted a member of the team that prepared the draft. The bill links digital safety with mental well-being, particularly among younger users, by addressing harmful trends and online behavioral risks.
To strengthen enforcement, the draft proposes technology-driven systems, including fake news detection, deepfake tracking, and real-time monitoring dashboards. Implementation of the law is planned in phases, starting with awareness and institutional setup, followed by technology integration and eventual full enforcement.
Experts view this initiative as a potential pathway for Karnataka to lead in decentralized digital governance, setting a benchmark for other states to follow. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the proposed legislation represents a proactive approach to safeguarding citizens while recognizing the challenges posed by rapid advancements in technology.
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