The ongoing spat between Indian and US social media companies shows how difficult it is to curb the overwhelming influence of technology platforms — and sometimes malice — on public discourse without radically strengthening the power of governments over police speech.
Recent developments in India well worth a look for the precedents they can set, especially for other major developing democracies. In June, the Indian government announced plans to set up a Complaints Appeals Committee, or GAC, to handle user complaints against technology platforms’ content moderation decisions. The purpose will be similar to FacebookBoard of Supervisors – with the ability to review and potentially reverse content takedown or account block.
