Photo Credit: ‘X’
The official X (formerly Twitter) account of global news agency Reuters has been withheld in India following what the platform states was a “legal demand.” Users accessing the account in India have encountered a notice saying it was withheld “in response to a legal demand.”
Government Denies Ordering the Block
Despite the notice, the Indian government’s Ministry of Electronics and IT has denied issuing any new request to block Reuters. According to CNBC TV18 , a spokesperson clarified that no fresh directive has been issued and that officials are in communication with X to resolve the issue. They indicated the blocking is likely linked to a previous request, not a current order.
Old Demand from Operation Sindoor Appears to Be Factor
According to credible sources, the account was among hundreds listed during “Operation Sindoor” in May, amid heightened India‑Pakistan tensions. That request was reportedly issued around May 7, but Reuters’ account was not blocked earlier. The decision by X to withhold it now appears to be an unintended follow-through on the earlier list.
Some Reuters Handles Still Accessible
While the main @Reuters and @ReutersWorld accounts are inaccessible in India, several affiliated handles—such as Reuters Tech News, Reuters Fact Check, Reuters Asia, and Reuters China—remain available. Users and industry observers are closely watching whether the block is temporary or part of a broader censorship trend.
Policy Context: Valid Legal Demands and Withholding
Per X’s public policy, accounts can be withheld in specific countries if compelled by a valid legal demand like a court order or local law. The platform emphasises such actions are jurisdiction-specific and do not affect global access.
Concerns Over Press Freedom and Digital Censorship
The incident has reignited concerns over press freedom and government influence over digital platforms. Critics point out that India previously ordered X to withhold over 8,000 accounts—including foreign media outlets like Global Times and TRT World—under threat of jail time for non-compliance. Many observers argue that these blanket blocking practices hamper transparency and accountability in public discourse.
What Happens Next? Resolution in Sight
Government officials say they are working with X to clarify the issue and lift the block. It remains unclear whether Reuters or X will go to court or release detailed statements. The resolution may provide clearer insight into how legacy government requests like those from Operation Sindoor continue to affect digital media access.
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