MeitY open to changes in draft IT rules

Amid a public outcry over proposed amendments to the Information Technology Rules, the ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) on Tuesday indicated it may extend the April 14 deadline for stakeholder feedback, following consultations with intermediaries and civil society groups.

IT Secretary S Krishnan said the ministry was open-minded and would examine all suggestions before finalising the amendments. “We have received requests for more time, we will consider what is appropriate,” he told reporters after the meeting, adding that stakeholders had sought additional time as well as, in some cases, withdrawal of the draft changes.