X Platform Removes Accounts Amid Indian Government Pressure

Social media platform X announced on Thursday the removal of certain accounts and posts following orders from the Indian government, reportedly linked to ongoing farmer protests demanding higher crop prices.

Formerly known as Twitter, the platform did not specify the details of the removals but expressed disagreement with the action, citing concerns about curtailing freedom of expression.

This move once again highlights the challenges faced by foreign technology giants operating in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, which has frequently criticized companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter for insufficient action against what it deems fake or “anti-India” content.

X stated that its stance aligns with its ongoing legal challenge against the Indian government’s content-blocking orders.

“We will withhold these accounts and posts in India alone; however, we disagree with these actions and maintain that freedom of expression should extend to these posts,” said X’s Global Government Affairs in a statement, without identifying the affected accounts.

The statement follows a week of protests by Indian farmers, camped 200 km (125 miles) north of Delhi, after police blocked their march to the capital and used tear gas on crowds attempting to advance.

According to the Hindustan Times, last week’s “emergency” blocking orders from the government encompass accounts of some farmers’ groups and supporters.

Jairam Ramesh, a lawmaker from India’s main opposition Congress party, condemned the move on X, labeling it the “murder of democracy in India”.

X’s Global Government Affairs noted that legal restrictions prevent it from publishing government orders but stressed its commitment to transparency.

“This lack of disclosure can lead to a lack of accountability and arbitrary decision-making,” the statement added.