The dramatic increase in website blocking orders by the Indian government exhibits a concerning trend for Internet users nationwide. The figures show a 100-fold surge from 62 orders in 2013 to 6,954 in 2023 up until October. These actions are authorized under Section 69A of Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000, and take place amid the significant rise in Internet use since the reduction in mobile data prices in 2016.
Trends in Website Blocking Orders
Most blocked content pertains to individual posts, videos or profiles. The location of web/application servers can be traced immediately if the server does not comply with local laws or needs blocking per court orders. The rise in these orders points to an increased need for the government to secure control over digital content.
Legal Framework for Website Blocking
The IT Act, 2000, as amended periodically, regulates all activities related to computer resource use in India. This Act includes all ‘intermediaries’ that play a role in computer usage and electronic records. The recent Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, have resulted in the blocking of several websites and channels allegedly violating these rules.
Reasons for Government Web Blocking
The main drivers behind governmental website blocks are concerns with national security, public order, and adherence to legal regulations. The goal is to counter threats such as terrorism, hate speech, and unlawful content. However, there are challenges to this practice, including the widespread use of VPNs to bypass blocks and advances in encryption technologies which limit the visibility of Internet providers into user activity.
Implications of Government Website Blocking
The blocking of websites has several potential implications including challenges to freedom of expression, limited information access, economic consequences, and public perception issues. It is crucial that a balance is struck between protecting national interests and preserving the rights of citizens to express their opinions.
Impact on Information Access
Blocking websites can limit the public’s ability to stay informed about various issues, hindering their capacity to make well-informed decisions. Unchecked blocks may unintentionally impede knowledge dissemination and undermine the public’s right to access information.
Economic Repercussions
Website blocking can have economic repercussions, particularly if it disrupts the operations of legitimate businesses hosted on those platforms. This can adversely impact revenue, stifling innovation and hindering economic growth.
Public Perception and Trust
The government’s decision to block websites can shape public perception and trust in its ability to uphold democratic values. Arbitrary or unjustified website blocking perceived by the public can lead to a loss of trust in government institutions, potentially impacting overall civic engagement.
Way Forward
To enhance the efficiency of website blocking, collaboration with major Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) such as Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Cloudflare could be explored. CDNs distribute content extensively, offering potential mechanisms for effective blocking. However, governments must execute transparent, accountable processes to address legitimate threats without infringing on freedom of expression or disrupting businesses, thereby maintaining public trust.