The Indian National Congress has strongly criticized the Central government for its systematic crackdown on social media platforms like X, YouTube, and Instagram. Party spokesperson Supriya Shrinate accused the government of stifling dissent and freedom of expression by blocking or restricting accounts critical of its policies. Shrinate highlighted that various accounts, including those of independent content creators and YouTube channels, have faced blocks, suspensions, or content removal under official directives.
The actions, carried out under “Section 69A” of the Information Technology Act, have raised concerns about bureaucrats deciding what content Indians can access. Shrinate emphasized that this move is not just about controlling narratives but a significant blow to freedom of expression. She pointed out that beyond mainstream media, the government is now targeting social media, blocking accounts and removing content, even silencing voices raising public issues like gas shortages in Noida.
Shrinate stressed that the affected accounts were not limited to Congress-related ones but also included individuals critiquing opposition policies. She asserted the right of all individuals to express their opinions freely, stating that such measures would not deter genuine public inquiries into governance. The Congress party has pledged to continue addressing these issues, framing the social media actions as part of a broader trend of avoiding accountability amidst growing public and economic challenges.
