HMIB at Bloomberg New Economy Forum, Singapore

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlights the impact of social media on institutional trust, calls for platform responsibility and a techno-legal approach to data protection

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed deep concern over the growing erosion of trust between citizens and institutions due to the unchecked influence of social media. He noted that the proliferation of deepfakes, synthetic material and rapidly amplified rumours is severely damaging the fabric of societal trust.

Emphasising the need for accountability, the Minister said that social media platforms must take responsibility for the content they host and disseminate, ensuring it does not harm individuals, communities or society at large.

He underscored India’s “techno-legal” approach to digital governance, explaining that the Data Protection Act is designed as a principles-based law. Such a framework, he said, is essential because technology evolves rapidly—sometimes every quarter or even every month—and overly prescriptive laws could stifle innovation.

“We believe in a balanced combination of innovation and regulation, where innovation is encouraged while potential harm is effectively mitigated,” he said, adding that the government is actively working with industry and civil society to achieve this equilibrium.

The Minister reiterated that every company operating in India must respect the Constitution, the country’s legal framework and its social and cultural diversity. “Platforms must understand and respond responsibly to the societal context, diversity and sensitivities of the country in which they operate,” he said.