Information Technology Act, 2000

Information Technology Act, 2000 : The social media platform X (formerly Twitter) filed a lawsuit against the Central Government challenging the use of Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000 for content blocking orders.

• About Information Technology Act, 2000: Enacted to regulate cyber activities in India, ensuring safe digital practices and addressing cybercrimes.
• Key Provisions: Under section 69A of IT Act, empowers the government to block online- content to safeguard Sovereignty and integrity of India →Defence of India → Security of the State

• Section 79(3) (b): Allows the government to direct online intermediaries (e.g., X) to block access to unlawful content flagged by appropriate government agencies.

o Failure to comply leads to loss of safe harbour protections — legal immunity from user-generated content.

• About Sahyog Portal: Created by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) as an online portal for Central and state agencies and local police officers to issue blocking orders under Section 79(3)(b), bypassing Section 69A safeguards.