Delhi High Court to examine if YouTube channel terminations can be challenged via writ petition
The Delhi High Court is set to examine whether a content creator can challenge the termination of a YouTube channel through a writ petition. A decision is expected on December 8.
New Delhi, India – The Delhi High Court will examine the legal standing of challenging YouTube channel terminations via writ petitions. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma issued notices to Google and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) on September 17, scheduling the next hearing for December 8.
The case involves Shaban Alam, a creator whose YouTube channel, "Indian Reality Show," was terminated on July 1. Alam's subsequent appeal to the Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC) was rejected on July 15. He has now filed a petition with the High Court seeking to quash the GAC's order and have his channel, content, subscribers, verification badge, and monetization restored.
Alam's channel, operational since 2017 with over 267,000 subscribers, was reportedly his sole income, generating between Rs 30,000 and Rs 50,000 monthly. He contests Google's stated reasons for termination, asserting that actions taken were part of content editing and testing and never intended for public release. The petition claims Google provided no specific evidence or details regarding the alleged violations.
The Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) is providing Alam with pro-bono legal assistance. This case could set a significant precedent regarding platform content moderation and the avenues available to creators for redressal in India. The court's examination will focus on whether such disputes are appropriate for resolution through a writ petition.