X says it will fight Indian court ruling on content takedown system after the Karnataka High Court upheld the government’s Sahyog portal. The company argues the system is unconstitutional, overly secretive, and a direct threat to free expression online.
What The Court Ruled
The Karnataka High Court dismissed X’s petition last week, backing the government-run Sahyog system. According to the court, X — as a foreign company — cannot claim freedom of speech rights under India’s constitution.
This was a blow to the platform, which had argued the system allows police to issue arbitrary takedown orders without judicial review.
What Is The Sahyog Portal?
Launched in late 2024, Sahyog — meaning “assistance” in Hindi — is India’s automated content takedown platform. It allows government agencies to directly order platforms to remove content flagged as unlawful.
Google, Meta, and ShareChat have already joined the system, but X has stood firm in refusing compliance.
Why X Is Pushing Back
X has branded the Sahyog system a “censorship portal.” The company argues it bypasses Section 69A of India’s IT Act, which requires written orders, safeguards, and judicial oversight for online content blocks.
“The Sahyog enables officers to remove content solely based on allegations of illegality — without due process for speakers,” X’s Global Government Affairs team wrote. They added that platforms could face criminal liability for non-compliance.
Free Speech At The Core Of The Debate
X’s central argument rests on free expression. The platform says Sahyog violates Indian citizens’ rights to free speech and expression while creating unchecked power for law enforcement.
But the court ruled that as a foreign entity, X cannot directly challenge the system on constitutional free speech grounds.
What’s Next For X
Despite the setback, X says it will fight Indian court ruling on content takedown system through an appeal. The case could set a precedent for how global tech companies operate under India’s increasingly strict digital regulations.
With major platforms already cooperating with Sahyog, X’s resistance is being closely watched by both the tech industry and free speech advocates.
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