The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) conducted a pivotal workshop on the Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC) at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The event, aimed at addressing stakeholder concerns and enhancing internet safety, brought together GAC members, social media intermediaries, and senior government officials.
The workshop focused on reinforcing the grievance redressal mechanism under the Information Technology Act, 2000, with an emphasis on swift action against fake content and fostering public trust in grievance officers.
Ensuring Efficient Redressal and Building Trust
S. Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, delivered the inaugural address, underscoring the importance of efficient grievance redressal. He highlighted that trust in the system can only be achieved when complaints are resolved swiftly and effectively. Shri Krishnan also emphasized the need for regular interaction between the appellate authority and regulatory framework to identify potential issues and craft effective solutions.
Rising Awareness Among Users
Bhuvnesh Kumar, Additional Secretary, MeitY, noted a significant increase in the number of grievances received at the appellate level. This surge, he stated, is driven by heightened public awareness of the redressal mechanisms, including the role of GACs and Grievance Officers. As users become more informed, they are increasingly leveraging these platforms to resolve their concerns.
About the Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC)
Operational since January 2023, the GAC was established under the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, as part of the Government of India’s commitment to fostering a safe, accountable internet.
The GAC operates digitally through its web portal (https://gac.gov.in), enabling users to file appeals, track statuses, and receive timely updates. The committee aims to resolve appeals within 30 calendar days, ensuring a seamless and transparent process.
Key Achievements of the GAC
- Appeals Processed: Over 2,322 appeals received, with 2,081 resolved to date.
- Relief Granted: 980 appeals resolved through 1,214 orders issued.
- Growing Engagement: An average of 300 appeals received monthly in the second year.
- User Registration: Around 10,000 users registered on the portal, reflecting increasing trust.
- Compliance: Active adherence by intermediaries to GAC orders, enhancing accountability.
