Social media platform X (East Twitter), which is now owned by Allen Musk, has expressed deep concern over the order to block 2,355 accounts by the Government of India and said that he is considering all legal options. The X says that these accounts also included accounts of major news agency reuters.
The X issued a statement on its official “Global Government Affairs” handle stating that it received the order from the Government of India on July 3 under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, asking to follow the order within an hour. The order also warned that the company and its local employees could take legal action if they do not comply.
The X said, “We get clear indications of press sensorship by these blocking orders. We are very worried about it and are investigating all legal options.” Later, after the cleanliness from the government and the uproar in the media, the accounts of the reuters were unblocked.
However, the Ministry of Electronics and IT of the Government of India said that it had not given any direct order to block the account of Reuters. The Ministry says that the concerned order is being reviewed and explanation has been sought from X.
The X further stated that it is bound within the boundaries of Indian laws, so cannot challenge direct orders. He urged the affected users to personally turn to the court.
The controversy has sparked a new debate on social media censorship and freedom of digital expression in India. Experts believe that this matter may define the balance of rights between the government and tech companies in the coming time.
Many journalists and users in India are concerned about this action and believe that such legal battles are necessary to protect the freedom of expression in digital space.
