Elon Musk’s X Complies with Indian Government’s Orders on Farmers’ Protest-Related Accounts Despite Disagreement

X, the social media company owned by Elon Musk, has adhered to the emergency blocking orders issued by the Indian government against accounts and posts linked to the farmers’ protests. While complying with the directives, X expressed its disagreement and underlined its commitment to freedom of speech. The company will withhold specific accounts and posts in India alone to avoid potential penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The move comes in response to executive orders issued by the Indian government, compelling social media platforms to take action.

In a statement through its Global Government Affairs account, X stated, “We disagree with these actions and maintain that freedom of expression should extend to these posts.” The company highlighted that a writ appeal challenging the Indian government’s blocking orders is currently pending. X also provided notice to the impacted users in accordance with its policies.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) had issued emergency blocking orders against 177 accounts linked to the ‘Delhi Chalo’ farmers’ march. X, along with other platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and Snap, received orders to suspend these accounts to maintain public order. The Indian government emphasized the need for the suspension until February 19, after which the accounts could be restored. X underscored the importance of making executive orders public for transparency, expressing concern about the lack of disclosure leading to arbitrary decision-making.