NewDelhi, October 14, 2025: A petition filed by a woman doctor before the Supreme Court has sparked a wider debate on digital rights and social media dependency. The petitioner sought the court’s intervention to restore her blocked WhatsApp account, claiming that the company’s arbitrary action infringed upon her rights. However, the apex court made an interesting observation — advising her to switch to an Indian alternative, Arattai.
The Petition
The petitioner, Dr. Raman Kundra, was represented by senior advocate Mahalakshmi Bhavani before a bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta on October 10. According to the plea, Dr. Kundra’s WhatsApp account was suspended on September 13, 2025, without prior notice or explanation.
Advocate Bhavani argued that WhatsApp has become a vital tool for professional and personal communication, and its suspension directly impacted her client’s work and connectivity. She contended that the move amounted to a violation of fundamental rights, given that digital communication is now an integral part of modern life.
When WhatsApp was contacted for clarification, the company reportedly stated that the account “will remain blocked,” without citing specific reasons. Dissatisfied with the response, the doctor approached the Supreme Court for relief.
Supreme Court’s Observation
During the hearing, Justice Sandeep Mehta remarked:
“How can access to WhatsApp be considered a fundamental right? There are several other communication platforms available. For instance, you can use ‘Arattai’, which is a Made-in-India application.”
The courtroom reportedly reacted with mild amusement, but the judge’s statement carried a deeper message — citizens should avoid over-dependence on foreign digital platforms. The bench clarified that access to a private company’s service cannot be equated with a constitutional entitlement.
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What is the Arattai App?
Arattai is an Indian instant messaging platform developed by Zoho Corporation. Functionally similar to WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram, it offers features such as text messaging, audio and video calls, photo and video sharing, voice notes, and group chats. In recent months, the app’s popularity has surged, particularly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to promote indigenous digital products under the “Vocal for Local” initiative. As a result, Arattai has climbed to the No. 1 position in the social networking category of Apple’s App Store in India, surpassing global giants such as WhatsApp and Signal.
A Push Toward Digital Self-Reliance
Legal experts see the Supreme Court’s remark as more than a procedural observation — it is being viewed as a symbolic endorsement of digital self-reliance. The court subtly emphasized the importance of reducing dependence on foreign-owned platforms and encouraging the growth of domestic technology ecosystems. The case also reignites discussion around the accountability and transparency of private digital companies. With millions relying on a handful of global apps, questions about user rights, grievance redressal, and platform governance are becoming increasingly significant.
Conclusion
While the petitioner did not receive immediate relief, the case highlighted a pressing question: Should access to social media and communication platforms be considered a fundamental right? The Supreme Court’s response suggests otherwise — access to any particular platform remains a matter of private service, not constitutional protection. Yet, the court’s reference to Arattai reflects an emerging national sentiment: India must build and trust its own digital solutions.
