Indian Authorities Restrict Online Content Following Jantar Mantar Protests

Following recent protests in New Delhi, Indian authorities have allegedly begun restricting access to online content. Reports indicate that governmental bodies are issuing notices to platforms to remove or geo-block posts, potentially under Sections 79(3)(b) and 69A of the IT Act, as reported by MediaNama.

MediaNama has initiated a tracker to document instances of content censorship. This list aims to record material that Indian authorities are reportedly preventing the public from viewing, particularly in the context of student demonstrations. The documentation includes cases where content has been removed or blocked on social media platforms.

Reported incidents involve the unavailability of an official Instagram page, geo-blocking of journalist content, and takedowns of posts by content creators. For example, a reel by a DW News journalist detailing alleged police violence during a protest was reportedly geo-blocked in India. Content from Maktoob Media and News With Ritik has also been cited as removed or blocked.

Further claims suggest Instagram is restricting stories and that smaller accounts critical of the government have been affected. Some content creators have shared screenshots indicating posts were removed or withheld in India, citing community guidelines or IT rules. Allegations of 'shadow banning' and erroneous account blocking by automated systems have also surfaced.

MediaNama continues to monitor and document developments related to digital censorship in India, encouraging the public to report any observed cases.