Authorities ordered the censorship of several critical media websites and the blocking of 8,000 accounts on X.
This statement was originally published on SFLC.in’s X account on 10 May 2025.
Amidst ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, the Government of India has issued blanket censorship orders against media organisations including The Wire, 4 PM News, Maktoob Media, Free Press Kashmir and journalists including Anuradha Bhasin and Muzamil Jaleel. The Government has also issued more than 8,000 blocking orders in this regard, as stated by X (formerly Twitter).
While we acknowledge that the increase in online misinformation is a serious concern, the widespread blocking of social media accounts without prior notice or an opportunity to contest takedowns is neither just nor effective. Content has been removed without any reasoning, notice, or opportunity for redress. Such actions amount to censorship, curbing access to credible information and ultimately contributing to public confusion. In a healthy democracy, dissent and critical questioning are not threats, instead they are essential tools for accountability, transparency, and the strengthening of democratic institution itself. The public also has a right to access diverse sources of information and perspectives, and the media plays a crucial role in upholding this right. Transparency in the issuance of blocking orders is crucial to build public trust and combating disinformation.
We therefore urge the Government to publish all blocking orders and ensure that such issuance follows due process including notice to the account holders and the principles of natural justice such as right to a fair hearing for affected parties. We also urge the government to foster the free interplay of diverse voices, enable access to information beyond echo chambers, and uphold the constitutional freedoms guaranteed to the press.
SFLC.in works at the intersection of technology, law, and policy, and has been advocating for digital freedoms and rights by fostering collaborative efforts among diverse stakeholders in India and beyond. SFLC.in has also filed a public interest litigation in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of Rule 16 and the reading down of Rules 8 and 9 of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public) Rules, 2009, for violating Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution for enabling content blocking without following due process.
