8000 X accounts blocked in India after govt’s executive orders

 In a significant move to tighten its control over online platforms, the Indian government has issued executive orders that have led to the blocking of over 8000 accounts on X (formerly known as Twitter). This action is part of the government’s continued effort to address the growing concerns over the spread of misinformation, illegal activities, and harmful content on digital platforms.

The accounts, which were reportedly involved in spreading misleading information, promoting violence, or engaging in unlawful activities, have been flagged by regulatory authorities for violating India’s strict cyber laws. The government claims that these measures are necessary to protect national security, public safety, and the integrity of information on the internet.

Many of the blocked accounts were linked to extremist groups, fake news networks, and coordinated bot operations that aimed to disrupt the digital landscape. The government’s action comes at a time when social media platforms are under increasing scrutiny worldwide for their role in enabling the spread of fake news and hate speech.

Officials have emphasized that these actions were in line with India’s Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which require platforms to remove content deemed harmful or dangerous to the public. These guidelines also mandate platforms to appoint compliance officers who ensure adherence to the country’s laws.

The blocking of X accounts is a part of the government’s broader crackdown on digital platforms that have been found to violate Indian laws. The government has been actively pursuing measures to control online content that it deems harmful to the country’s sovereignty and social harmony.

X (formerly Twitter) has been caught in the crossfire of these regulatory efforts, with many users expressing frustration over the lack of transparency in the blocking process. Critics argue that the orders could potentially be abused to silence dissenting voices or restrict free speech.

However, the Indian government has defended its actions, stating that they are aimed at protecting the interests of the country and its citizens. They also insist that these measures are not intended to curtail freedom of expression but to curb the misuse of online platforms for spreading hate and false information.

This move comes on the heels of other similar actions in the digital space, including the blocking of several apps and websites that were found to be engaging in activities contrary to Indian laws.

Experts predict that this trend of government regulation of social media is likely to continue as part of India’s broader digital governance strategy. The focus will likely remain on ensuring that platforms are held accountable for the content they host and the impact it has on society.

The debate over digital regulation is set to intensify, with many questioning the balance between protecting national interests and upholding individual rights to freedom of expression online.