Bengaluru: Karnataka’s proposed digital safety law aims to tighten regulation of social media platforms with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), faster content moderation and stronger user protections, according to a draft submitted to chief minister Siddaramaiah.The draft bill signals a shift towards responsible digital citizenship in the AI era. “If everything goes to plan, it will be India’s first state-level, AI-compliant, citizen-centric digital safety framework,” said S Mohanadass Hegde, member, KSPPC. A highlight of the bill is its focus on AI-generated content and deepfakes. It proposes mandatory labelling of such content, backed 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, moving regulation from advisory to enforceable action. The Karnataka Responsible Social Media & Digital Safety Bill, 2026, prepared by the Karnataka State Policy and Planning Commission (KSPPC), will be vetted by the state legal department before being considered for introduction in the monsoon session of the state legislature in June-July.The draft marks a departure from existing central laws such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, and IT Rules, 2021, by proposing a state-level regulatory framework and citizen-focused safeguards.Centre’s Information Technology Act, 2000, provides the legal framework for digital transactions in India and defines cyber offences and penalties, while Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, build on this by requiring online platforms to follow due diligence, remove unlawful content promptly, and ensure accountability through compliance measures. The proposed Karnataka Digital Safety & Social Media Regulatory Authority will oversee compliance and respond to emerging digital risks. “A localised authority can respond faster to emerging digital threats and region-specific issues,” Hegde further explained. For users, it guarantees the right to report harmful content, access time-bound grievance redressal and seek protection against harassment and misinformation. Education Holds Key The proposal also emphasises prevention through education. It proposes a digital awareness and media literacy programme that aims to promote fact-checking, critical thinking and responsible online behaviour. “This is a preventive approach—educating users rather than only punishing violations,” noted a member ]of the team that prepared the draft. The draft bill links digital safety with mental well-being, especially among young users, by addressing harmful trends and online behavioural risks. To strengthen enforcement, it proposes technology-driven systems such as fake news detection, deepfake tracking and real-time monitoring dashboards. Implementation is planned in phases, starting with awareness and institutional setup, followed by technology integration, followed by full enforcement. Experts say “this positions Karnataka as a potential pioneer in decentralised digital governance”, providing a model for other states to follow.Points for GFX:What the bill proposes:AI & deepfakes: Mandatory labelling, penaltiesQuick takedowns: 24-48 hour deadlineState regulator: New oversight authorityUser safeguards: Faster grievance redressal, protectionsDigital literacy: Focus on awareness, prevention
