The Chairperson of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), Priyank Kanoongo, has summoned the Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy at YouTube, Mira Chatt, to appear in person before them on January 15. The NCPCR chief has requested a list of challenges on YouTube that depict potentially indecent acts involving mothers and sons, as well as a list of channels running such challenges that involve minors.
The NCPCR, established by the Government of India as a statutory body, has the responsibility of safeguarding child rights and addressing related matters. One of its functions is to investigate complaints and take notice of violations of child rights, non-compliance with laws protecting children, and failure to follow relevant policy decisions, guidelines, or instructions.
The commission has recently taken note of a concerning trend on YouTube channels, where challenges portraying potentially indecent acts involving mothers and sons have emerged. Such content raises serious concerns about the potential harm it may pose to the well-being and safety of children. Moreover, these videos have garnered a large viewership, including minors, which further escalates these concerns.
Under the CPCR Act, 2005, the NCPCR is empowered with the authority similar to that of a civil court. This includes summoning individuals, conducting sworn examinations, and requesting the production of relevant documents.
In light of their responsibilities and powers, the NCPCR has directed Mira Chatt to appear before them. They require her physical presence and request a comprehensive list of all challenges on YouTube that depict potentially indecent acts involving mothers and sons, as well as a list of YouTube channels that run such challenges involving minors.
Failure to comply with the summons may result in legal consequences as per the provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.
The NCPCR’s action is part of their commitment to the protection and welfare of children. They aim to address the concerning content on YouTube that may have harmful impacts on minors. By summoning the YouTube executive, they aim to gather crucial information and take appropriate action to safeguard children’s well-being and guarantee a safer online environment.
This development highlights the growing need for platforms like YouTube to be vigilant in moderating and regulating the type of content available to their users, particularly when it involves minors. Protecting children from potentially harmful content should be a collective responsibility shared by governments, regulatory bodies, and content platforms alike.
