On 3 November 2026, SFLC.in received notifications from X regarding takedown requests issued by the Delhi Police concerning 42 URLs, including the handle and posts of SFLC.in, the Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF), @geoblockedindia, and other users. The requests relate to posts documenting instances of online censorship and legal notices purportedly issued on behalf of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
The links are as below:
1. https://x.com/SFLCinhttps://x.com/SFLCin/
2.https://x.com/SFLCin/status/2116135727969005900
3. https://x.com/SFLCin/status/2116135732389781933
4. https://x.com/SFLCin/status/2116135736709890447
5. https://x.com/SFLCin/status/2116135740791013660
The requests invoke provisions concerning criminal defamation under BNS and intermediary liability under the IT Act, while also citing hate speech and safety/security as grounds for removal. SFLC.in raises serious concerns regarding the legal basis, necessity, and proportionality of these requests, particularly their inclusion of the organisation’s handles, the absence of any disclosed court orders supporting the proposed restrictions, and the potential circumvention of established procedural safeguards.
We believe that these requests are unlawful and disproportionate and undermine the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression enshrined under Article 19(1)(a) of the India Constitution. SFLC.in calls upon the Delhi Police and concerned authorities to withdraw the requests immediately and disclose any underlying court orders (if any).
SFLC.in stands in solidarity with IFF, @geoblockedindia, and all other individuals and organisations affected by these requests. We reaffirm our commitment to protecting the right to independently document, review, and challenge restrictions on online expression.
For a detailed overview of the matter and SFLC. In’s position, please refer to our full statement below:
