The Centre informed the Delhi HC that Significant Social Media Intermediaries (SSMIs) must issue prior notice to users before account actions (like suspensions), as mandated under IT Rules, 2021. This submission came in response to petitions challenging Twitter’s permanent suspension of accounts like “WokeFlix” and “MeghBulletin.” The government emphasized that SSMIs must respect users’ free speech rights and avoid blanket account suspensions unless most content is unlawful. Rule 4(8) requires SSMIs to notify users of actions and reasons. The Centre warned that unchecked suppression of fundamental rights by platforms threatens democratic values. The matter highlights tensions between platform moderation and user rights.
