The Kerala High Court orders the instant removal of obscene videos targeting a 14-year-old girl. Learn how this landmark decision holds social media platforms accountable under India’s IT Rules 2021 to protect minors from online abuse.

Kerala High Court Takes Strong Stand Against Online Abuse of Minor

On June 10, 2025, the Kerala High Court delivered a critical interim order, providing immediate relief to a 14-year-old girl and her family. The court directed major social media platforms including YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook to take down all videos containing obscene and derogatory edits targeting the child.

Origin of the Online Harassment

The incident began when the young girl shared a spontaneous review of a Malayalam film titled Moonwalk, directed by her uncle. Posted online after the film’s release on May 30, the video was soon misused by unknown individuals.

They edited the footage by adding mocking voiceovers, offensive music, and sexually suggestive captions. These edits distorted the girl’s innocent expressions and speech, turning the content into a subject of viral mockery.

Mother’s Legal Battle for Justice

Despite the mother’s efforts to report these disturbing videos using platform complaint systems, no effective action was taken. Frustrated and concerned for her daughter’s mental well-being, she filed a police complaint, attaching links and screenshots of the offensive content—but again, no resolution followed.

Finally, she turned to the Kerala High Court for protection, citing her daughter’s growing anxiety, emotional trauma, and social withdrawal triggered by the viral abuse.

Legal Grounds: Invoking IT Rules, 2021

The petition was anchored in the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. Specifically, it invoked:

• Rule 3(1)(b)(iii): Prohibits dissemination of content harmful to children.
• Rule 3(2)(a)(i): Requires platforms to respond to takedown requests within 72 hours.

The mother asserted that despite receiving valid complaints, social media companies neglected their obligations under these rules.

Immediate Court Intervention and Orders

After evaluating the case, Justice N. Nagaresh passed an interim order mandating the immediate removal of all links to the offensive, manipulated videos. The decision aims to not only protect the child’s dignity but also establish a precedent in enforcing digital accountability.

Impact and Importance of the Verdict

This court directive serves as a reminder of the critical role legal systems play in combating cyberbullying and online harassment. It reinforces the importance of safeguarding minors and ensuring that social media giants act promptly and responsibly when handling abusive content.