Fear of Criticism: Modi Government Moves to Further Tighten Restrictions on Social Media Freedom

New Delhi — Amid growing public criticism of Hindutva-driven policies and worsening economic mismanagement in India, the Modi government has further tightened censorship and control over social media platforms after restricting print and electronic media.

Delhi Police Orders Social Media Platforms to Remove Anti-Modi Content

According to a report published by the Indian investigative news outlet The Wire, Delhi Police has directed several social media companies to immediately remove content uploaded against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his policies.

Key Details of the Report

Online Criticism by Young People:

Indian youth, frustrated by government incompetence and unemployment, are increasingly using social media posts and memes to highlight the failures of the Modi administration.

Identification of Critical Content Underway:

Police sources have confirmed that the process of identifying anti-Modi and critical content across various platforms is being accelerated.

Questions Over Legal Authority:

According to The Wire, it remains unclear under which legal authority or provision the police are compelling social media companies to remove such content.

Attack on Freedom of Expression and International Concern

International human rights organisations have described these actions by the Indian government as contrary to democratic values.

Human Rights Watch:

According to the international rights organisation, the Indian government has significantly expanded its control over online content, independent journalism, and citizens’ opinions through controversial amendments to information technology laws since 2021.

Political and security experts say that forcing social media platforms to remove critical posts and memes is not only a direct attack on freedom of expression but also exposes the deep political insecurity of the Modi government and the reality of India’s so-called democracy before the world.