Can I get defamatory content removed from the internet?

Yes. File complaint with platform's Grievance Officer (must respond within 15 days). If unresolved, approach court for takedown order.

You have multiple avenues to get defamatory or harmful content removed from the internet. First, report the content to the platform's Grievance Officer — under the IT (Intermediary Guidelines) Rules 2021, every significant social media intermediary must appoint a Grievance Officer who must acknowledge complaints within 24 hours and resolve them within 15 days. For content relating to nudity, sexual acts, or impersonation, the platform must remove it within 24 hours of receiving a complaint. Second, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in. Third, approach the court for an injunction or takedown order — courts can direct platforms to remove specific content. For search engine results, you can file a request with Google/Bing to de-index the content. Keep screenshots and URLs as evidence before the content is removed.

• IT Act — Section 79 (Intermediary liability and safe harbour)
• IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021
• BNS Section 356 (Defamation)