CRIMINAL LIABILITY OF SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS IN SUICIDE INCIDENTS

The rapid integration of social media has intensified suicide contagion through algorithmic instigation and exposure to self-harm content. This article assesses intermediary liability regimes—including India’s Information Technology Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the U.S. Section 230, and the EU Digital Services Act—and identifies challenges in proving platform knowledge, preserving digital evidence, and addressing negligent design across jurisdictions. Policy recommendations propose clear statutory definitions, mandated due diligence duties of care, enhanced transparent moderation logs with preservation orders, and international cooperation for mutual legal assistance. Integrating mental-health expertise and public-private partnerships is essential to balance free expression, privacy, and user safety in preventing suicide-related harms.