The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): Social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, has complied with an Indian government order to remove certain accounts and posts reportedly linked to the ongoing farmers’ protests. The platform expressed disagreement with the government’s directive, citing concerns over curtailing freedom of expression.
The recent action underscores the challenges faced by foreign technology companies in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration. The government has frequently criticized major tech firms like Google, Facebook, and Twitter for not adequately addressing what it deems to be fake or “anti-India” content.
According to X’s Global Government Affairs, the decision to withhold the accounts and posts will be limited to India. However, the platform remains in opposition to these measures, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression. The action follows a week of protests by Indian farmers, who camped north of Delhi after being blocked from marching to the capital.
The Hindustan Times reported that the government’s “emergency” blocking orders included accounts of some farmers’ groups and supporters. The Indian ministries of interior affairs and information technology have not yet responded to requests for comment on the matter.
This development has sparked reactions from political figures, including Jairam Ramesh of the Congress party, who described the move as the “murder of democracy in India” in a post on X. The platform’s Global Government Affairs stated that legal restrictions prevent them from publishing the government orders, but they strive for transparency. They expressed concerns that the lack of disclosure could lead to a lack of accountability and arbitrary decision-making.