Meta blocks Maktoob Hindi's Instagram reel on Jantar Mantar protests in India

Meta-owned Instagram has restricted access in India to a two-minute reel posted by Maktoob Hindi that documented ongoing protests at Jantar Mantar.

The platform cited a legal requirement under India's Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, for the geo-block. The specific origin or reason for the order remains undisclosed. While inaccessible within India via a direct link, the reel remains viewable internationally or through VPNs.

The video critiques the historical use of media narratives to delegitimize protest movements, referencing past farmer and anti-CAA/NRC demonstrations. The speaker argued that similar attempts to discredit current protesters are failing due to increased public awareness of such tactics.

Filmed against the backdrop of student-led protests in Delhi demanding accountability for alleged NEET exam paper leaks in 2026, the reel addresses recent events. These protests saw a significant police crackdown on July 20, involving tear gas and baton charges, with images of injured students circulating widely.

Maktoob Media has faced previous content restrictions. In March 2026, X (formerly Twitter) removed a Maktoob Media video explainer on the Kunan Poshpora mass rape case following an order from India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The publication's founding editor has voiced concerns over censorship.