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28 July 2026

Government action against BitChat app

The topic involves the application of the IT Act, 2021 Rules, and the proportionality standard from the Anuradha Bhasin case, which are core components of internal security, digital governance, and constitutional rights.

1 min read 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, directed GitHub to remove repositories for BitChat.
  • BitChat is a decentralised, peer-to-peer messaging app using Bluetooth mesh networks, requiring no internet, servers, or phone numbers.
  • The government order cites concerns that the app facilitates anonymous communication, evades lawful surveillance, and could be used to coordinate unlawful assemblies or riots.
  • The order was issued under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and Rule 3(1)(d) of the IT (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.
  • Section 79(3)(b) allows for the removal of content used for unlawful acts, while Section 69A of the IT Act is the standard provision for blocking public access to information.
  • Critics argue the order violates the proportionality standard established by the Supreme Court in the Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India (2020) case, noting that potential for misuse is not a sufficient legal basis for prohibition.

Questions

  1. Discuss the legal framework governing the regulation of decentralised communication technologies in India, with specific reference to the Information Technology Act, 2000. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The principle of proportionality is central to balancing national security concerns with the fundamental rights of citizens. In the context of digital surveillance and internet shutdowns, evaluate how the judiciary has interpreted this principle in recent years. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, empowers the Union government to direct the blocking of public access to information on grounds of national security and public order?

Syllabus

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Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-07-28/government-action-against-bitchat-app