X to Appeal Indian Court Ruling on Content Removal Rules

Elon Musk-owned social media platform X said on Monday it would appeal an Indian court ruling that dismissed its challenge to New Delhi’s content removal mechanisms, calling the system unlawful and a violation of free speech. The company, which has long sparred with Indian authorities, argued the framework lacked legal basis and infringed on citizens’ constitutional rights to freedom of speech and expression.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has tightened online regulations since 2023, expanding the number of officials authorized to issue takedown requests through a centralized website. Authorities maintain the system is essential to curb unlawful content and ensure accountability, while critics, including X, have equated it to censorship.

Last week, an Indian judge ruled that platforms operating in the country “must accept that liberty is yoked with responsibility.” X, however, reiterated that while it respects Indian law, it disagrees with the court’s decision and insists it has the right to raise concerns despite being incorporated abroad.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright