1. Elon Musk’s X, previously known as Twitter, has voiced apprehensions regarding purported “executive orders” from the Indian government targeting specific accounts and posts.
2. While complying with the government’s directives, X asserts its disagreement, emphasizing the fundamental value of freedom of expression.
3. The company highlights the importance of transparency and accountability, urging for the disclosure of executive orders to avoid arbitrary decision-making.
New Delhi, Feb 22: Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) has raised concerns over alleged “executive orders” from the Indian government, directing the social media platform to take action against specific accounts and posts.
Despite the company’s compliance, it maintains its disagreement with the government’s directives, citing the importance of freedom of expression.
In a statement posted on X’s Global Government Affairs early Thursday, the company disclosed its obligation to adhere to the government’s orders, which include potential penalties such as hefty fines and imprisonment.
The Indian government has issued executive orders requiring X to act on specific accounts and posts, subject to potential penalties including significant fines and imprisonment.
In compliance with the orders, we will withhold these accounts and posts in India alone; however,…
— Global Government Affairs (@GlobalAffairs) February 21, 2024
However, X asserts its stance that freedom of expression should encompass the content in question, despite being compelled to withhold it in India alone.
“While complying with the orders, we firmly believe that these actions undermine freedom of expression, a fundamental principle we uphold,” the statement emphasized.
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The post also noted that a legal challenge against the government’s directives is pending, indicating X’s commitment to contesting what it perceives as unjust limitations on expression.
Additionally, the affected users have been notified of these actions in line with the platform’s policies.
Furthermore, X expressed concerns about the lack of transparency regarding the executive orders, highlighting the importance of disclosing such directives to ensure accountability and prevent arbitrary decision-making.
The company stressed the need for transparency in government actions that impact digital platforms and users.
The government has yet to respond to X’s allegations and concerns.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders await further developments regarding the clash between regulatory measures and digital freedom in India.
