‘This new regime has no basis…’, Elon Musk’s X to appeal Karnataka Court’s order on takedown portal

Social media platform X

Elon Musk-owned social media platform X has pushed back against a Karnataka court order that greenlights a new content takedown system, arguing it violates both Indian law and citizens’ fundamental rights. The order allows millions of police officers to demand removal of online posts through a portal called Sahyog — without judicial review or transparency.

In a post by X’s Global Government Affairs handle, the company said the mechanism bypasses Section 69A of the IT Act, the legal framework under which content restrictions must normally operate. That section requires oversight and due process, conditions the Supreme Court has upheld in past rulings. By contrast, the Sahyog portal empowers officers to flag material as “illegal” and force its removal, with platforms facing criminal liability for non-compliance.

The social media platform argued that this system effectively strips users of their constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression, since takedowns could be enforced arbitrarily and without recourse. The company pointed out that the Bombay High Court had recently struck down a similar framework, calling it unconstitutional.

While stressing that it complies with Indian law, X said it “respectfully disagrees” with the view that its overseas incorporation should prevent it from raising constitutional concerns. The company emphasised its role in India’s public discourse, saying its platform gives voice to millions of Indian users and that their rights are at stake.

X confirmed it will appeal the ruling, positioning itself as defending free expression in one of its most important markets. “X contributes significantly to public discourse in India and the voice of our users is at the heart of our platform. We will appeal this order to defend free expression,” said the social media platform.