Facebook official refuses to appear before Delhi assembly panel in hateful content probe

NEW DELHI : Facebook India vice-president and managing director Ajit Mohan on Monday refused to appear before Delhi assembly committee, which is probing complaints about the social media giant’s inaction to contain hateful content. The committee is also probing if “there is any role or complicity of Facebook officials in Delhi Riots”, which took place earlier this year.

The committee has decided to issue a final warning to Facebook to ensure the appearance of its official on the next date of meeting. A refusal to appear would be considered as an “act of breach of privilege”. The move, which is in contempt, may lead to charges being initiated under the Indian penal code.

In its reply to the committee, Facebook said that the matter falls under the purview of the Union government and urged the Delhi government to recall the notice.