The Centre on Tuesday told the Delhi High Court that micro-blogging site Twitter was prima facie in compliance with the new IT Rules 2021, by appointing three-tier Redressal Grievance Officers.
Justice Rekha Palli, who was hearing a petition alleging non-compliance of Information Technology Rules by Twitter, sought an affidavit from the Union government to bring its stand on record within two weeks.
Representing the Centre, additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma said, Chief Compliance Officer, Nodal Contact Person (NCP) and Resident Grievance Officer have been appointed in compliance with the law. “That’s the email that I’ve received (from the instructing authority). It’s better to have an affidavit,” he added.
The high court said that US based microblogging website’s affidavit on its compliance with IT Rules was finally on record.
Representing Twitter, Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya, emphasized that the company has appointed CCO, RGO and NCP officials for permanent posts.
The appointed persons will work on a full-time basis and are proficient of performing the functions in terms of the law, he said.
“Court gave us a long rope. Finally we have rectified the situation. We have permanent people occupying the position,” Poovayya submitted.
On July 28, the court had slammed Twitter for appointing a contingent worker as CCO, saying that the social media platform was in non-compliance with the new IT guidelines.
The Centre and twitter have been in clashes over the compliance of new IT rules. The microblogging site had said it was committed to India as a vital market, but criticised the new IT rules, which “Inhibit free, open public conversation”.
In its affidavit, the Centre said that Twitter failed to comply with India’s IT Rules, which could lead to its losing immunity conferred under the IT Act.
The Information Technology Rules, 2021 seek to regulate dissemination and publication of content in cyber space and social media platforms, they were notified in February by the union government.
Meanwhile, the next court hearing is scheduled to be on October 5.
