The Meta algorithm warning follows a government advisory asking the company to review how Facebook and Instagram recommend content, particularly during politically sensitive developments and public-order situations.
In an advisory dated October 10, 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) asked Meta to strengthen checks on recommended material and prevent misleading posts, manipulated visuals and one-sided accounts from receiving excessive visibility.
The ministry also raised concerns about users repeatedly encountering a narrow range of narratives instead of being exposed to relevant and credible information.
The advisory does not identify a specific incident as the reason for the directive. However, it comes amid protests in Delhi by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and opposition parties demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Old Videos and Misleading Claims Under Scrutiny
The government has expressed concern about how recommendation systems can amplify content without sufficient context. Videos from previous incidents, for example, may be mistaken for footage of current events when their dates and locations are unclear.
Similarly, unverified claims about emergency measures, restrictions or police action can spread rapidly, potentially creating confusion.
MeitY has asked Meta to examine how its ranking systems handle such material and prevent manipulated or unrelated photographs and videos from receiving repeated recommendations. The advisory also calls for appropriate context to accompany visuals depicting ongoing events when their origins or circumstances are unclear.
Meta Asked to Report Action Taken
The ministry has directed Meta to review its internal processes and improve the identification and assessment of posts that attract significant attention through recommendation systems.
Content that could contribute to widespread confusion, unrest or violence should receive timely scrutiny. The company has also been asked to cooperate with authorised government agencies and law enforcement in accordance with applicable laws.
At the same time, the advisory states that efforts to address harmful content should not unnecessarily restrict lawful public discussion. The government has called for measures that address unlawful or misleading material while allowing legitimate civic debate to continue.
Legal Obligations Under IT Rules
The advisory refers to Meta's obligations under the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
MeitY has directed the company to take the necessary steps with immediate effect and inform the ministry about the measures implemented.
The directive places renewed attention on how social media platforms balance content recommendations, misinformation risks, public safety and users' access to diverse viewpoints.
For official information, visit the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
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