‘Attack on free expression’: Content creators, media contest govt’s ‘arbitrary’ notices

In recent weeks, the Central government has intensified its scrutiny of popular social media accounts that critique the government, policy or highlight urgent social issues. Under different sections of the IT Act, 2000, authorities are issuing notices to restrict account access or to demand the removal of specific posts.

Several content creators and handles active on social media platforms – such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube – including Mohammed Zubair, Khurpench, National Dastak, and Molitics, have received such notices.

To highlight these concerns, Molitics – a popular social media platform with over 400,000 Instagram followers – organised a press conference on April 2. 

Attended by Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, Molitics editor Neeraj Jha, comedian Rajiv Nigam, and National Dastak editor Shambhu Kumar, the panel addressed the issuance of notices that lacked clear grounds. They alleged that the government is targeting accounts questioning it, describing the move as a “direct attack” on freedom of expression.

Molitics editor Neeraj Jha told Newslaundry he knew such an event would occur sooner or later, but “did not expect the government to act so swiftly.”

Addressing the panel, Sanjay Singh noted that even journalists have faced legal action, suggesting that the government’s “intimidation” is beginning to take hold. However, he urged defiance: “You must keep this battle going; we will stand by you.”

Expressing his support in Parliament for the social media accounts targeted by the government, Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Kumar Jha said: “Voices were raised 75 years ago, and they will continue to be raised 75 years from now.”

Watch our report. 

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