Context
The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has directed GitHub to remove repositories related to the BitChat Bluetooth-based messaging application, citing concerns over its potential misuse for unlawful activities. The move has reignited debate on the legal framework governing online content blocking and intermediary liability.
Explanation:
- BitChat is a decentralised peer-to-peer messaging application that uses Bluetooth mesh networking, enabling communication without the internet, SIM cards or central servers.
- Under the Information Technology Act, 2000, Section 79 grants safe harbour to intermediaries, while Section 69A empowers the Central Government to block online content in the interests of sovereignty, security, public order and prevention of cognizable offences.
- The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 prescribe due diligence obligations for intermediaries.
- The Supreme Court in Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015) upheld Section 69A and the Blocking Rules while emphasizing procedural safeguards and reasoned orders.
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