Freedom of Expression Under Fire: Social Media’s Role in India’s Farmers’ Protests
Social media giant X (formerly Twitter) has acknowledged removing accounts and posts related to the ongoing farmers’ protests in India, citing “executive orders” from the Indian government. X clarified its actions, stating disagreement with the orders but compliance due to potential penalties.
The move sparked outcry from activists and journalists, with reports of accounts belonging to reporters, influencers, and farm unionists being suspended or withheld. Indian journalist Mohammed Zubair highlighted the suspension of “influential X accounts,” while Mandeep Punia, a journalist covering rural India, lamented the impact on livelihood and freedom of expression.
In response to criticism, X maintained that freedom of expression should extend to the posts in question and revealed legal challenges against the government’s orders. The opposition Congress party condemned the clampdown, accusing the government of silencing dissent in a democratic country.
The farmers’ protests, ongoing since February 13th, seek minimum support prices for crops, with demonstrators attempting to march to Delhi. Heavy barricades and police deployment at state borders aim to prevent their entry into the capital. The government’s handling of the protests faces scrutiny, with tensions escalating following the reported death of a protester during a standoff with police.
As dialogue between the government and unions continues, the protests underscore broader issues of agricultural policy and democratic rights in India.
