Social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, has disclosed that it is under orders from the Indian government to block over 8,000 accounts within the country. X is adhering to the request but has expressed its discontent, stating that this action poses a threat to free speech and is excessive.
In a statement made on Thursday, X highlighted that the government’s demands include blocking accounts belonging to notable individuals and international news organisations. The platform has commenced limiting access to these accounts in India but firmly disagrees with the justification for the actions taken.
X is compelled to comply with executive orders from the Indian government that require it to block more than 8,000 accounts. This directive comes with potential consequences, including hefty fines and imprisonment for local employees. The orders stipulate the blocking of numerous accounts in India.
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X indicated that it has not received sufficient evidence or justification for blocking a substantial number of accounts, highlighting that the government has often failed to specify which posts infringed upon Indian law.
In addition, the company expressed apprehension regarding the legal implications of non-compliance, noting that failure to adhere to these orders could lead to severe fines and imprisonment for its local staff.
Referring to the demand for complete account blockage as “unnecessary” and a type of “censorship,” X argued that such actions violate the basic right to free speech and hinder access to future content.
Even though X disagrees with the directive, the platform asserts that maintaining access in India is essential. X remarked that while this is a challenging decision, ensuring accessibility is crucial for Indians’ ability to obtain information.
Moreover, X acknowledged that it is actively exploring all available legal options, but under Indian law, its capacity to contest these orders is limited. The company encouraged impacted users to pursue legal recourse on their own and provided resources to legal aid groups, including iProbono India, the National Legal Services Authority, the Karnataka Legal Services Authority, and the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee.
The platform has also notified affected users according to its guidelines and advised them to reach out to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology at cyberlaw@meity.gov.in if assistance is required.