Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s recent call to bolster the laws governing social media and OTT platforms highlights a critical issue in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. With billions of users in the country, these platforms have transformed communication, entertainment, and commerce. However, their growing influence has also brought challenges such as misinformation, online abuse, and unchecked content, necessitating a robust regulatory framework to safeguard societal and individual interests. Social media platforms have revolutionized how we share information, but the lack of stringent oversight has allowed the proliferation of fake news, hate speech, and cyberbullying. These issues not only polarize societies but also pose a direct threat to democratic institutions. Moreover, the misuse of algorithms for amplifying sensational or harmful content has raised questions about the accountability of tech giants. Strengthening existing laws to address these gaps is essential to ensure platforms operate responsibly while respecting free speech. Similarly, OTT platforms, which provide on-demand video content, have democratized entertainment. They have given a platform to diverse voices and narratives, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. However, their unregulated nature has sparked debates about content suitability and ethical boundaries. Concerns about explicit material, offensive depictions of communities, and the potential for cultural erosion demand a nuanced approach to regulation. While existing frameworks like the IT Rules 2021 and content advisories have laid a foundation for digital accountability, they remain insufficient in addressing the scale and complexity of the challenges. Social media platforms, for instance, often evade timely responses to legal directives, citing jurisdictional limitations or platform policies. Similarly, self-regulation by OTT platforms has led to inconsistencies in content classification and adherence to community standards. Strengthened laws must strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding public interest. Clear guidelines on accountability, transparency in algorithms, and faster grievance redressal mechanisms are crucial. Additionally, our approach should prioritize user safety, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, while upholding fundamental rights like freedom of expression. However, care must be taken to ensure that regulatory measures do not stifle creativity or lead to censorship. A participatory approach, involving policymakers, industry stakeholders, and civil society, can help craft balanced solutions. Advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning can also be leveraged to monitor and address harmful content proactively. The urgency highlighted by Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reflects the need to align India’s digital governance with its aspirations as a global tech leader. Stronger laws for social media and OTT platforms will not only protect users but also enhance trust in digital ecosystems, enabling our country to reap the benefits of its digital transformation responsibly and sustainably.