It's A WhatsApp World

This episode explores WhatsApp's profound influence in India, its largest market, examining both its benefits and the challenges it poses. WhatsApp's widespread adoption has enabled commerce and communication for millions, effectively becoming "the internet" for many Indians. However, the platform's ease of sharing has also facilitated the spread of misinformation, leading to mob violence and social unrest. The program highlights the tension between WhatsApp's commitment to end-to-end encryption and the Indian government's demand for traceability to combat harmful content. The discussion includes the perspectives of technology reporters and social scientists, illustrating the complexities of regulating a platform deeply embedded in the social and political fabric of a nation.