TIWN
New Delhi, July 8 (TIWN) The Supreme Court on Thursday said Facebook has the "power of not simply a hand but a fist, gloved as it may be", as these platforms employ business models having potential to polarise public debates.
A bench comprising Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Dinesh Maheshwari and Hrishikesh Roy said: "These platforms are by no means altruistic in character but rather employ business models that can be highly privacy intrusive and have the potential to polarise public debates.
"Facebook has the power of not simply a hand but a fist, gloved as it may be."
These platforms have become power centres themselves, having the ability to influence vast sections of opinions, it added.
The bench observed that developments around the world reflect rising concerns across borders. "The concern is whether the liberal debate which these platforms profess to encourage has itself become a casualty," it said in its 188-page judgment.
- SC to hear on Monday Bengal govt's plea against Calcutta HC order axing 25,753 school jobs
- Bihar: Anant Singh released from jail on parole
- Will Chandrababu Naidu's winning streak continue in Andhra's Kuppam?
- Gujarat gears up for May 7 LS polls
- Rahul dares PM Modi to promise removal of 50 pc quota limit, says 'Cong will do if voted to power'