MeitY issues SOP to curb non-consensual intimate imagery, mandates 24-hour takedown
The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) released a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on 11 November 2025 to remove and prevent Non-Consensual Intimate Imagery (NCII) on online platforms, with takedown required within 24 hours of reporting.
Summary
MeitY's NCII SOP was developed in compliance with directions of the Madras High Court (order dated 15 July 2025) and aims to ensure effective implementation of Rule 3(2)(b) of the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. It gives victim-centric guidance for victims, intermediaries and law enforcement, covering intimate or morphed images shared without consent. Victims can report through One Stop Centres, which help with the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, legal support and counselling, or directly to platforms through in-app tools and grievance officers.
Key facts
- Issued by
- MeitY, 11 Nov 2025
- Content
- Non-Consensual Intimate Imagery (incl. morphed images)
- Takedown
- Within 24 hours of reporting
- Court direction
- Madras High Court, order of 15 Jul 2025
- Legal basis
- Rule 3(2)(b), IT Rules 2021
- Reporting
- One Stop Centres, NCRP, platform grievance officers
Practice MCQs 2 questions
Within how much time of reporting does MeitY's November 2025 SOP require takedown of Non-Consensual Intimate Imagery?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — 24 hours
The SOP lays out mechanisms for takedown of NCII content within 24 hours of reporting.
MeitY's SOP on Non-Consensual Intimate Imagery was developed in compliance with the directions of which High Court?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Madras High Court
The SOP follows the Madras High Court's order dated 15 July 2025.