The NCPCR has directed senior Meta India officials to appear before the Commission on Wednesday (September 9) as part of an inquiry into allegations that advertisements on Meta-owned platforms were linked to child sexual abuse material.
The Commission took up the matter suo motu, or on its own initiative, after a BBC Eye investigation highlighted the allegations.
Following the report, the NCPCR issued a notice to Meta Platforms, Inc. on July 3, 2026, seeking an explanation from the company. Meta submitted its response approximately a week later.
After examining the company’s reply, the child rights panel decided to proceed with a formal inquiry to establish the facts and determine the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
Commission to examine Meta’s response
The proceedings will focus on the allegations raised in the media report as well as the explanation provided by Meta in response to the Commission’s notice.
The appearance of Meta India’s senior officials is expected to help the NCPCR examine how the alleged advertisements were placed, whether safeguards were in place and what steps were taken after the alleged content was identified.
The inquiry comes amid increased scrutiny of social media platforms over the use of paid advertising systems and the measures adopted to prevent the circulation or promotion of child sexual exploitation material.
NHRC had earlier sought Delhi Police probe
The development follows separate proceedings by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which had asked the Delhi Police to investigate allegations that paid advertisements on Instagram were being used to promote child sexual abuse material in India.
The NHRC also asked the police to examine whether Meta and other parties had complied with their legal reporting obligations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The rights panel’s action followed media reports by the BBC World Service alleging that certain phrases used in Instagram advertisements could direct users to channels where such material was allegedly being offered for sale.
Delhi Police asked to submit Action Taken Report
In a letter dated July 8, the NHRC directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) on the allegations.
The proceedings were initiated after the Commission received a complaint and related information on July 6.
The NHRC subsequently wrote to the Delhi Police again on July 29, asking for the required report.
Focus on child safety and platform accountability
The NCPCR inquiry and the separate NHRC proceedings have placed renewed focus on the responsibility of social media platforms to prevent the exploitation of their advertising and recommendation systems for illegal activities involving children.
The NCPCR’s latest summons will allow the Commission to seek further clarification from Meta India as it works to establish the facts and assess the company’s response to the allegations.
