India's government has called in a top Meta executive after the company briefly removed a video posted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing concerns about examination paper leaks. The incident has intensified scrutiny on Meta's operations in the country.

The Indian government has summoned Meta's public policy chief following the temporary removal of a video posted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Facebook. The video, uploaded during widespread protests over leaked exam papers, contained Modi's assurances that his administration would introduce stringent legislation with enhanced penalties for those responsible for such breaches.

In the message, Modi acknowledged the serious nature of exam paper leaks and their impact on students and families. He outlined steps taken over the previous two-and-a-half months, noting that those responsible had been arrested. He also indicated that his cabinet would soon discuss a draft proposal featuring provisions for expedited court proceedings and tougher punishments, with plans to table legislation in parliament's second week.

Meta stated the removal occurred in error and restored the video. The Ministry of Information Technology has not publicly commented on the matter. Observers noted the vertical format of the video suggested an attempt by Modi to reach younger audiences through platforms like Instagram, which favor short-form vertical content.

The incident reflects growing tensions between India's government and Meta. Authorities previously ordered the removal of protest-related videos and images they deemed objectionable, including those containing critical references to senior officials. Meta faces additional pressure over child sexual abuse material distribution on its platforms and WhatsApp's proposed usernames feature, which the government has asked be postponed over concerns about fraud, impersonation, and digital scams.