Indian Govt Slams Social Media Platform X For Calling Official Website 'Censorship Portal'

Mumbai: India has taken strong exception to social media platform X’s characterization of an official government website as a “censorship portal,” according to court documents reviewed by Reuters on Friday.

The information technology ministry told the court that such terminology, used by a global platform like X, was "unfortunate and unacceptable." The government asserted that the platform was creating unnecessary alarm over censorship reported Reuters.

The government maintains that the website in question is meant to facilitate swift communication with tech firms regarding their due diligence responsibilities. It insists that no direct content removal orders have been issued via the portal.

Argument Made By Social Media Platform X

X, however, argues that India has significantly broadened its powers to regulate online content, making it easier to impose takedown directives. The company claims the new system allows numerous government officials to demand content removal, effectively expanding state control over digital discourse.

Dispute Escalates

The dispute escalated when X filed a lawsuit on March 5 in Karnataka, challenging the government's initiative. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology responded on March 27, rejecting X’s allegations as baseless. Although the ministry’s response remains undisclosed to the public, sources indicate that it reiterated the government's stance on maintaining online safety while upholding legal obligations.

This legal battle unfolds against the backdrop of Elon Musk’s broader business ambitions in India, with his ventures Starlink and Tesla preparing for market entry. The case highlights ongoing tensions between global tech giants and regulatory authorities over content moderation and digital governance. The ministry has yet to comment publicly on the lawsuit.