Union Govt to Karnataka HC: Unlawful Content Isn’t Free Speech, Responds to X Corp’s Plea

The Union Government informed the Karnataka High Court that unlawful content does not enjoy the same constitutional protection as free speech.

This statement was made in response to X Corp’s (formerly Twitter) plea challenging the authority to issue content-blocking orders under Section 69A of the IT Act, 2000.

The government argued that regulating unlawful content is essential for protecting democratic processes and public order. It also clarified that Section 79(3)(b) concerns safe harbour provisions for intermediaries, while Section 69A deals with blocking orders.

The court will hear the matter on April 3.