India asks Meta to fix algorithmic bias

The digital ministry has instructed the social media giant to review its ranking systems to prevent users from being exposed to limited narratives.

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A government advisory dated October 10 requires Meta to ensure its algorithms do not disproportionately amplify specific content during periods of public sensitivity.
The directive aims to reduce public confusion by providing better context for videos and graphics depicting ongoing events.

The Indian government has issued a formal advisory to Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, directing it to modify its content recommendation systems. According to ThePrint, the digital ministry issued the directive on October 10, requesting that the platform prevent users from experiencing a disproportionate exposure to a limited set of narratives. The advisory specifically targets the way algorithms amplify content that could lead to public disorder or incite violence.

The directive requires Meta to provide adequate context for photographs, videos, and graphics depicting ongoing public events, particularly when the date, location, or circumstances are not immediately clear to the audience. ThePrint reported that the ministry observed certain content regarding law-and-order situations being prominently displayed without sufficient background, which may contribute to public confusion and apprehension. The advisory asks the company to review its ranking mechanisms to ensure that potentially misleading or out-of-context material is not repeatedly recommended to users.

Although the advisory does not point to a single specific incident, it was issued amidst protests in Delhi led by the Cockroach Janta Party and opposition groups. These demonstrations demanded the resignation of the top election official over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Ministry sources told PTI that intelligence agencies reported Meta’s platforms were not promoting all narratives equally, with algorithms appearing to favor specific types of content over others.

The ministry has asked Meta to cooperate with law enforcement and furnish information within the timelines prescribed by the 2021 IT Rules. The advisory outlines six specific asks for Meta, including measures to identify content under these rules and to ensure that actions taken align with the 2000 Information Technology Act. The government emphasized that the goal is to facilitate responsible information dissemination while respecting legitimate public discourse.

Apar Gupta, Founder Director of the Internet Freedom Foundation, described the advisory as a continuing censorship directive. He noted that while it is not legally binding, it requires Meta to take measures with immediate effect and disclose every takedown or downranking act. Gupta argued that phrases like content without adequate context are not explicitly tied to specific provisions of the IT Act or IT Rules.

India directs Meta to curb algorithmic bias in content recommendations

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