'AI World Very Different From IT Act Era': Ashwini Vaishnaw Signals Need For New Law

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Tuesday said India’s existing information technology law was drafted long before the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), suggesting that the country may need a new legal framework to effectively regulate the rapidly evolving technology.

Speaking to PTI, Vaishnaw said the government is evaluating the issue through consultations with industry stakeholders and is mindful of the need to encourage technological advancement while safeguarding users.

Government Consulting Industry Stakeholders

Upon being asked whether India is considering a separate AI law or would continue regulating the sector through provisions under the IT Act, the minister described the matter as highly complex.

“It’s a very complex topic. Certain

things have been done under the IT Act framework, but I do think that there is a requirement for a new law because the world of AI is very different from the world when the IT Act was enacted in 2000,” the Union Minister for IT and Electronics said.

Vaishnaw said discussions with industry representatives were underway as the government examines possible regulatory approaches.

Global Debate On AI Safety

“We are discussing with the industry…as always, our objective and approach will be to balance innovation and regulation in a manner that innovation keeps happening, while our citizens remain safe,” the Minister added.

Countries across the world are grappling with questions around AI safety and accountability as the technology becomes increasingly integrated into everyday life, prompting governments to reassess existing legal and regulatory structures.