Facebook’s India policy chief Ankhi Das steps down after controversy over BJP bias

Social media giant Facebook’s public policy director, Ankhi Das, has stepped down from her position, the company said in a statement today. Das led the company’s policy team for India, and South and Central Asia. According to Facebook, Das has stepped down to “pursue interests in public service”.

“Ankhi has decided to step down from her role in Facebook to pursue her interest in public service. Ankhi was one of our earliest employees in India and played an instrumental role in the growth of the company and its services over the last 9 years. She has been a part of my leadership team over the last 2 years, a role in which she has made enormous contributions. We are grateful for her service and wish her the very best for the future.” said Ajit Mohan, Facebook’s India Vice President & Managing Director.

A policy expert close to the company said Das’ departure from the company had been expected since the past two months after Wall Street Journal reported that she had opposed the takedown of posts by BJP ministers to protect the company’s interests in India.