Centre seeks details of algorithm, processes used by Facebook amid hate speech allegations

With Facebook embroiled in a fresh row over its alleged failure to check the spread of fake news and hate speech, the Centre has sought an explanation from the social media giant about its algorithms to manage content.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has sent a letter to Facebook India’s Managing Director Ajit Mohan seeking details of the algorithms and processes used by the company to moderate content on its platform.

Based on the company reply, the IT Ministry may take further steps including an investigation into the issue. “If required, the government may summon the company executives to seek explanation,” said an official in the IT Ministry.