End of Online Impunity - Avinash Ramtohul: 'The Laws Will Be Strict Against Digital Abuses'
Avinash Ramtohul, the Minister of Information Technology, presents a clear observation: the Mauritian digital space has long existed in a gray area where abuses have multiplied without proper judicial oversight. For nearly a decade, scams, the dissemination of intimate photos, fake profiles, hateful content, and more recently, AI-generated manipulations have thrived without an adequate response from the State. "For years, there has been no significant progress, either technological or legal," he emphasizes. This inertia has left the most vulnerable citizens exposed.
Among the problematic platforms, Telegram remains the most concerning. Its anonymity makes it a breeding ground for the spread of private photos, the sale of illicit products, and the activities of groups that exploit the lack of regulation. Instead of banning the application, Avinash Ramtohul advocates for stricter regulations and user accountability to balance freedom of expression with citizen protection.
In this context, the government is launching a significant legislative reform. The law will be tightened and modernized to address new digital crimes, especially those related to generative artificial intelligence. The Minister highlights the concept of ‘Responsible AI,’ which is essential in our time. The reform will facilitate the identification of the perpetrators of these manipulations and impose stricter penalties.
Mauritius is also planning a technological aspect: tools capable of detecting and authenticating AI-generated content. These tools will help victims prove that content has been falsified, strengthening the fight against defamation, blackmail, and political manipulations. The Minister warns: penalties will be severe, with a zero-tolerance policy.
Holding Platforms Accountable
A second pillar of the government's strategy focuses on holding major digital platforms accountable. Until now, they have applied their own internal rules, sometimes disconnected from the Mauritian context. From now on, they will have to comply with local laws. They will be required to appoint a compliance officer based in Mauritius, who understands the nuances of Creole and can quickly interact with the authorities. Significant penalties will be imposed for non-compliance. "Mauritius is sovereign, including in the digital realm. If abuses persist, we will act," asserts Avinash Ramtohul.
This restructuring of the digital landscape is part of a broader vision: to create an orderly, secure digital space that respects rights. Special attention will be given to protecting children, with parental control tools, enhanced collaboration with families, and clear guidelines for moderating harmful content. The Minister also mentions international cooperation, particularly with India, to ensure a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, combating abuses, and psychological support for victims.
In parallel, Avinash Ramtohul announces that 9,600 families registered with the Social Register of Mauritius will soon benefit from free internet access. This initiative, designed with the Ministry of Social Integration, aims to democratize digital access and is a first step towards free internet for more households.
Towards a New Era of Digital Governance
The Minister also recalls advancements in the public sector with the deployment of the e-Health system. The centralization of medical data allows for electronic patient identification, improving the speed of care and resource allocation. Now operational at Flacq Hospital, this system is a key step in modernizing public services.
These measures - online security, expanded internet access, and modernization of health services - are part of the same dynamic: to build an accessible, efficient, citizen-centered Mauritian digital ecosystem.
"Impunity is coming to an end," concludes the Minister. With this new law and these reforms, the State intends to regain control of its digital space and enter a new era of digital governance.