Delhi Dec 2, 2024 (Navroze Bureau) – In the last three years, the central government has blocked more than 10,500 URLs under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, taking a major step to stop pro-Khalistan and radical content. These URLs were linked to the Khalistan referendum and other controversial activities on social media. This action was taken by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). These URLs were considered a threat to the sovereignty, integrity and security of India.
What was blocked?
Content related to Khalistan referendum
10,500 URLs contained pro-Khalistan content.
Several mobile apps, which were being used to promote the Khalistan referendum, were also blocked.
Popular Front of India (PFI)
2,100 URLs were blocked for spreading content linked to PFI.
Other radical content
Posts and accounts linked to LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam).
Content from terror groups in Jammu and Kashmir.
Accounts linked to Waris Punjab De (WPD).
Which platforms are affected? Blocked URLs and accounts (2021-2024)
1. Facebook
– Total 10,976 URLs
– Most of these URLs were linked to fraud, fake investment schemes and objectionable content.
2. Twitter (X)
– Total 10,139 URLs
– These URLs were mainly involved in the promotion of radical ideology and Khalistan referendum.
3.YouTube
– Total 2,211 accounts blocked.
– The content included misleading videos, radical propaganda and suspicious links.
4. Instagram
– Total 2,198 accounts blocked.
– Associated with the promotion of radical and extremist ideology.
5. WhatsApp
– 138 accounts.
– WhatsApp groups were being used to incite people and spread radical content.
6. Telegram
225 accounts
– This platform was being used for extremist ideology and suspicious activities.
Grounds for blocking
Section 69A (IT Act)
This provision allows the government to block URLs, websites or apps that threaten national security, sovereignty and integrity.
And are likely to disturb public order.
Blocking Process
- -The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) receives information from intelligence agencies.
- – MHA recommends blocking these URLs.
- – MeitY issues blocking orders to the concerned Internet Service Providers (ISPs), social media platforms and app stores.
Government’s intention and challenges
The government has clarified that these steps have been taken to protect India’s sovereignty and security. However, completely stopping radical content on social media and the Internet remains a big challenge. This action is one of the important steps taken by the government to stop radicalism on the Internet and social media.