Elon Musk’s X Takes Indian Government To Court Over Content Blocking: What We Know So Far

Elon Musk-owned social media platform X has filed a lawsuit against the Centre, alleging misuse of the Information Technology (IT) Act to censor content. The case, lodged in the Karnataka High Court, challenges what X calls arbitrary censorship and unlawful regulation of online content, as per multiple media reports.

Dispute Over IT Act Provisions

The lawsuit questions the Government’s interpretation of Section 79(3)(b) of the IT Act. According to X, this section is being used to create an informal content-blocking mechanism that bypasses the legal framework outlined in Section 69A. The platform argues that this practice contradicts Supreme Court rulings and undermines the right to free expression online.

Section 69A of the IT Act provides a structured legal process, allowing the Government to mandate content removal on grounds of national security, sovereignty, or public order. However, Section 79(3)(b) places the burden of determining illegal content on digital platforms, leaving them exposed to lawsuits and public backlash. Companies like X contend that content takedown should be based on explicit Government orders under Section 69A, rather than vague interpretations by platforms themselves.

Reference to Supreme Court’s Shreya Singhal Ruling

In its plea, X highlighted the Supreme Court’s 2015 ruling in the Shreya Singhal case, which established that content blocking must follow due process under Section 69A. The company claims that the Government’s actions contradict this legal precedent and impose unnecessary liability on platforms. By sidestepping judicial oversight, X argues that the current approach threatens digital freedom and accountability.

Government Engages with X Over AI Chatbot Grok

Amidst the legal battle, the Ministry of Information and Technology (MeitY) has initiated discussions with X regarding concerns over its AI chatbot, Grok. Reports suggest that the chatbot has been generating responses in Hindi that include slang and expletives, prompting Government scrutiny.

Authorities are now working with X to examine the reasons behind Grok’s language output. “We are in touch, we are talking to them (X) to find out why it is happening and what are the issues. They are engaging with us,” a Government source stated. The IT Ministry is set to closely monitor the chatbot’s behavior and its content moderation mechanisms to address the concerns raised.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case could have significant implications for content regulation and digital rights in India, shaping the way social media platforms operate under Government directives.