Bring social media under law

In the last decade, social media has transformed how we communicate, engage and express ourselves. Platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and others have given billions a voice, but with that voice has come chaos. Hate speech, misinformation, cyberbullying, data breaches and manipulation of public opinion have become rampant. The time has come for governments to stop treating social media as a lawless space and start regulating it with clear, enforceable laws. Unlike traditional media, which operates under strict guidelines and accountability, social media platforms often escape scrutiny under the guise of being “neutral platforms.” This lack of accountability has created fertile ground for fake news, online radicalization, and even election interference. The damage is no longer virtual—it spills into the real world, affecting societies, democracies, and lives. Regulating social media does not mean curbing free speech. On the contrary, it ensures that freedom of expression is not hijacked to spread hate or incite violence. Laws should enforce transparency in algorithms, protect users’ data privacy, and hold platforms accountable for content moderation. Just as we regulate public spaces for safety and fairness, the digital public square must also have rules. Several countries have already taken steps toward regulation. The European Union’s Digital Services Act, for instance, requires platforms to act against illegal content and be transparent about how they moderate. India, too, has introduced IT rules requiring social media companies to remove unlawful content swiftly. But these efforts need strengthening and global coordination. It’s not about stifling innovation, but about protecting society. Social media can be a force for good, but only if it operates within the framework of law. Without accountability, the same tools meant to connect us will continue to divide us. The law must catch up with technology before the consequences become irreversible.