How it Works
WPP, Havas, Omnicom: Are advertising’s biggest holdcos recasting agencies as AI Operating Systems?
MeitY Joint Secy Ajit Kumar appointed as Designated Officer to oversee online content blocking
MeitY names Joint Secretary Ajit Kumar as the new authorized officer to implement blocking orders under IT Rules, 2009; Sushil Pal to serve as alternate during his absence.
His appointment comes at a time when the ministry continues to tighten oversight of digital platforms and ensure compliance with India’s online content regulations.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has appointed Ajit Kumar, IAS (Kerala cadre, 2006 batch), Joint Secretary, as the Designated Officer empowered under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. The appointment was formalized through a Gazette notification issued on October 21, 2025.
Read more: 43 OTT platforms blocked for 'obscene' content: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informs Parliament
Under this designation, Kumar will serve as the authorized officer responsible for executing provisions of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public) Rules, 2009. These rules empower the Central Government to block public access to online information that may threaten national security, public order, or the sovereignty and integrity of India.
The 2009 Blocking Rules lay down a structured mechanism for the removal or restriction of online content, involving due process, inter-ministerial consultation, and oversight by a review committee. They also define procedures for both ordinary and emergency cases of blocking requests, ensuring a balance between national security concerns and procedural fairness.
As per the notification, Sushil Pal, ICAS (1999 batch) and Joint Secretary at MeitY, will serve as the Designated Officer during Kumar’s absence due to leave or official travel.
Kumar, who assumed charge as Joint Secretary in MeitY in May 2025, has previously served in various administrative and policy roles. His appointment comes at a time when the ministry continues to tighten oversight of digital platforms and ensure compliance with India’s online content regulations.
SPOTLIGHT
From purpose-driven work and narrative-rich brand films to AI-enabled ideas and creator-led collaborations, the awards reflect the full spectrum of modern creativity.
Read MoreDiageo India CEO Praveen Someshwar joins Grand Jury of Storyboard18 Awards for Creativity
Praveen Someshwar, Managing Director and CEO of Diageo India, joins the Grand Jury of the Storyboard18 Awards for Creativity, highlighting the awards’ focus on work that blends cultural relevance with strategic and commercial impact.