As per news agency ANI, the panel sought a detailed report from Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram regarding the steps taken by them towards protecting citizens data. The Standing Committee asked them to take concrete steps to tackle fake news and engage more with the Election Commission of India.
“Indian elections, national security, protecting citizens data is our top priority, send us clear written replies in 10 days”, said the panel led by BJP leader Anurag Thakur.
As per reports, the members of the committee also directed the social media companies to tell as to how they intend to address sensitive issues ahead of the Lok Sbah elections.
On being asked by the Parliamentary Standing Committee, “Is your platform serving society or dividing communities?” Facebook said “they are a hybrid company,” ANI reported citing sources.
It said that the social media giant failed to clearly answer which regulatory framework applies to their content, advertising and marketing ops in India.
Facebook has given a commitment to the panel that identity, location and who paid for advertisements during elections will be available on a special web page for users, sources said.
Facebook vice president (Global Public Policy) Joel Kaplan appeared before the panel to elaborate its functioning and planning with regards to Indian citizen’s data rights
During the hearing Facebook Global Policy Head also apologized to the committee for remarks made by Facebook employees on terrorism and Pulwama attacks.
Reports said that no one from Twitter appeared in the hearing.