The Karnataka High Court delivered a decisive ruling on Tuesday, underscoring that all digital platforms operating in India must adhere to the country’s legal framework. The court dismissed a petition by the social media platform ‘X’, which sought to challenge the Indian government’s takedown orders.
In its petition, X argued that Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, does not empower government authorities to issue blocking orders. The company maintained that only Section 69A, along with the accompanying rules under the IT (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking Access to Information by Public) Rules, 2009, provides the proper legal framework for such action. X also requested interim protection against punitive actions from various ministries and sought relief from being mandated to join the government’s ‘Cooperation’ portal.
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After months of hearings, the court reserved its judgment on July 29. Delivering the verdict, Justice M. Nagaprasanna emphasized that the regulation of communication has always fallen under the domain of governance. “The flow, dissemination, and speed of information and communication have never been uncontrolled,” he said. “It has always been subject to regulation.”
Expert Perspectives
Legal and cyber experts view the ruling as a significant signal to the digital industry.
Cyber law expert Dr. Subhash Verma remarked, “Any social media platform operating in India must comply with local laws. This ruling reinforces that even the digital sphere cannot escape regulatory oversight.”
Cybercrime specialist and former IPS officer Professor Triveni Singh added, “Social media platforms often overlook that digital spaces are subject to both citizen and governmental security concerns. This ruling reminds them that ignoring takedown orders and regulations can carry serious legal consequences. Operating in India means respecting Indian law, regardless of where a company is headquartered.”
Analysts note that the judgment has broader implications for the social media industry in India, making clear that compliance with government orders is non-negotiable. Platforms are now compelled to align their operations with local rules and regulatory directives.
The ruling comes at a time when India is increasingly tightening oversight over digital platforms to ensure transparency and accountability. For social media companies, the message is unmistakable: doing business in India entails full compliance with national laws and regulatory frameworks.
