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VOL. 8, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Obscenity in the platform age: Re-examining legal Standards for social media in the Indian context
Authors
Dr. Bhanupriya Kumawat
Abstract
The rapid rise of social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, and
Instagram has transformed public expression in India, fostering new forms of
visibility, monetization, and cultural influence. A surge in body-centric and
sexually suggestive content—often falling within a grey area between nudity,
expression, and obscenity—poses challenges to India’s traditional obscenity
laws. Rooted in statutes like the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and the
Information Technology Act, 2000, and shaped by judicial doctrines such as the
“community standards” test, these laws were designed for older media formats.
In the digital age, algorithm-driven dissemination, real-time publishing, and
platform incentives complicate regulation. This creates legal ambiguity around
defining obscenity, platform accountability, and protecting public interest
without curbing constitutional free speech, highlighting the need for updated,
platform-sensitive legal frameworks.
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Pages:1-5
How to cite this article:
Dr. Bhanupriya Kumawat "Obscenity in the platform age: Re-examining legal Standards for social media in the Indian context". International Journal of Law, Policy and Social Review, Vol 8, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 1-5
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