X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, is preparing to appeal a Karnataka High Court order concerning the “Sahyog portal.” This portal allows Indian police to demand the removal of online content, a practice X believes undermines freedom of expression. The company, led by Elon Musk, argues that the system could violate users’ constitutional rights.
X objects to the Sahyog portal’s mechanism, which permits police to order content removal without judicial review. The company sees this as a threat to democratic values and user rights. They argue that the system disregards legal standards, specifically Section 69A of the IT Act, and ignores Supreme Court rulings, potentially violating the freedom of speech guaranteed to Indian citizens.
Disagreements Surrounding the Sahyog Portal
X asserts that the Sahyog portal gives the police the power to remove content simply by classifying it as “illegal,” circumventing court oversight and any opportunity for the platform to defend the content. This, according to X, generates undue pressure on social media companies.
Context of the Karnataka High Court Decision
The Karnataka High Court previously dismissed X’s petition against the content removal mechanism, deeming the Indian government’s regulations legally compliant. X has opted to contest this decision in a higher court.
Government Justification for the Sahyog Portal
The Indian government maintains that the Sahyog portal is designed to combat unlawful and harmful content. They claim it is a crucial step in controlling the spread of fake news and misinformation, thus fostering accountability.
Elon Musk and the Indian Government’s Past Conflicts
This is not the first time X and the Indian government have clashed. The platform has previously opposed government policies on content blocking and censorship. Elon Musk has consistently emphasized his stance as a “free speech absolutist,” suggesting his commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression.
Increased Internet Regulations since 2023
The Indian government has enhanced its control over the internet since 2023. With the Sahyog portal, more than two million officials can now directly order tech companies to remove content. This action has increased pressure on the firms, a situation X is openly opposing.