‘Apologise within three days or...’: Parliamentary panel warns Meta's Mark Zuckerberg over PM Modi reel row

Parliamentary panel warns Meta over controversial PM Modi reel

A parliamentary committee has reportedly warned Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg to issue an apology within three days over a controversial reel featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi, failing which the company could face further action before the panel.

The warning comes amid growing concerns over the role of social media platforms in moderating content and preventing the spread of material considered misleading or objectionable.

Panel seeks explanation from Meta

According to reports, members of the parliamentary panel expressed dissatisfaction with the circulation of the reel and questioned Meta's content moderation practices.

The committee is understood to have sought a detailed explanation from the company regarding how the content was allowed to remain on its platforms and whether existing safeguards were followed.

During the proceedings, panel members reportedly told Meta representatives that an apology should be issued within three days, warning of further parliamentary action if the company failed to respond adequately.

Political controversy intensifies

The issue has triggered a political debate, with leaders from the ruling BJP accusing Meta of failing to act responsibly in handling content involving the Prime Minister.

Opposition parties, meanwhile, have called for greater transparency in how social media companies enforce their community standards, arguing that moderation policies should be applied fairly and consistently.

The controversy has once again placed global technology companies under the spotlight over their handling of politically sensitive content in India.

Meta yet to respond publicly

As of the latest reports, Meta had not issued an official public response to the parliamentary panel's warning.

The company has previously maintained that it enforces its community standards globally and regularly reviews content reported by users using a combination of automated systems and human reviewers.

Broader debate on digital accountability

The latest row adds to the ongoing debate over the accountability of major technology platforms operating in India.

Lawmakers have repeatedly stressed the need for greater transparency from social media companies, particularly in matters involving misinformation, political content and public interest.

The parliamentary panel is expected to review Meta's response before deciding on any further course of action.