---
title: "IT Rules 2021: Intermediary Guidelines Explained"
description: "The IT Rules, 2021 govern online intermediaries in India, ensuring compliance and content traceability, crucial for social media platforms and digital services."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/it-intermediary-guidelines-rules-2021"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The IT Rules, 2021 are Indian regulations governing online intermediaries, social media platforms, and digital news and streaming services, mandating compliance, grievance redressal, and content traceability obligations.
- What is a Significant Social Media Intermediary under the 2021 Rules?
- Why is the traceability requirement controversial?
- How do the Rules regulate OTT and digital news platforms?
- Which provisions have courts stayed or struck down?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

The IT Rules, 2021 are Indian regulations governing online intermediaries, social media platforms, and digital news and streaming services, mandating compliance, grievance redressal, and content traceability obligations.

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In May 2021, WhatsApp filed a petition in the Delhi High Court challenging Rule 4(2) of the IT Rules, 2021, arguing the first-originator traceability mandate would force it to break end-to-end encryption.

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