Addressing Non-Consensual Intimate Image (NCII) Abuse through Legal Frameworks and Standard Operating Procedures
The rise of AI-generated deepfakes has exacerbated Non-Consensual Intimate Image (NCII) abuse, particularly targeting women and transgender individuals. While the government has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) requiring the removal of such content within 24 hours, the article argues that legal provisions alone are insufficient. There is a lack of contemporary data from the NCRB on NCII, and existing laws like the IT Act and DPDP Act remain opaque in practice. The article calls for gender-neutral reforms, better police training, and stronger victim-centric legal mechanisms to address the deep-rooted social stigma and lack of digital literacy.
Key Points
- NCII abuse involves the unauthorized distribution of intimate images, often enhanced or created by AI deepfake technology.
- The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued SOPs in November 2025 to curb NCII circulation and protect digital dignity.
- A major hurdle is the lack of granular classification of cybercrimes in National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data.
- Effective redressal requires moving beyond technical fixes to address social stigma and improve law enforcement sensitivity.
Exam Facts
- Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 is the primary legislation for data privacy in India.
- MeitY issued SOPs for NCII removal on November 11, 2025.
- Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rule, 2025.
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