IFF raises concerns over social media takedowns and proposed expansion of blocking powers in India

The Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) has raised concerns over reports of social media posts and accounts being withheld in India on platforms such as Facebook, X, and Instagram, including content described as satire or criticism of the government.

Users reportedly receive generic notices stating content has been “withheld in India” under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, often without detailed explanations. Independent reporting has indicated that some of the affected content appears political or critical rather than clearly unlawful.

The statement also highlights a government proposal to decentralise blocking powers under Section 69A. Currently, final blocking orders are issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. The proposal would extend these powers to multiple ministries, including defence, home affairs, external affairs, and information and broadcasting.

In parallel, amendments to the IT Rules adopted in February 2026 have introduced shorter compliance timelines for platforms. These include deadlines as short as two to three hours in certain cases. The IFF notes that such timelines, combined with the risk of losing legal protections under Section 79, may incentivise platforms to comply quickly.

The organisation states that the Supreme Court upheld Section 69A in the Shreya Singhal case based on procedural safeguards, including written reasons and the possibility of legal challenge. It argues that limited transparency and access to blocking orders may undermine these safeguards.

IFF calls on the government to halt further decentralisation of blocking powers, publish blocking orders in line with legal requirements, and ensure that affected users receive clear notice and avenues for remedy. It also calls on platforms to provide more detailed notifications and improve transparency reporting.