India’s takedown orders to US social media firms politically motivated: US govt report
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New Delhi:A report by the United States government has suggested that content takedown orders issued by Indian authorities to American social media companies appear to be politically driven, identifying them as non-tariff trade barriers along with frequent internet shutdowns.
The observations were part of the 2026 National Trade Estimate submitted by the Office of the United States Trade Representative to Donald Trump and the US Congress on March 31.
The report outlines barriers faced by US exports and describes efforts by the administration to address what it terms non-reciprocal practices affecting American businesses.
It also flags India’s policies such as the use of domestic satellites for DTH services, digital services taxation, and international roaming rules as obstacles to trade, the Wire reported.
Focusing on India’s 2021 IT Rules, the report states that US firms have faced increasing compliance burdens, including tight deadlines and content removal protocols. It notes that since the introduction of these rules, American companies have received a growing number of takedown requests related to content and user accounts, which it suggests appear politically motivated.
The report’s remarks come amid rising scrutiny of takedown orders in India, with recent instances involving platforms like X, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. These actions have reportedly targeted a range of individuals and entities, including journalists, satirists, comedians, cartoonists, and political commentators.
Authorities have invoked provisions such as Section 69A of the Information Technology Act 2000, which allows blocking of online content in the interest of sovereignty, national security, or public order.
Other provisions cited include Section 79(3)(b) of the same Act, which removes intermediary protections if content is not taken down after notification, and Section 3(1)(d) of the IT Rules, 2021, which requires intermediaries to act within 36 hours of receiving notice. Recently, the compliance window for takedowns has reportedly been reduced to three hours.
The report also highlights concerns over India’s frequent use of internet shutdowns, stating that such measures restrict access to information, disrupt services, and negatively impact commercial activity, thereby affecting the digital economy and trade. It adds that the US is monitoring how these developments influence trade and investment, particularly in services.
India has consistently recorded one of the highest numbers of internet shutdowns globally, often citing public safety and national security. A report by Access Now noted that the country ranked second worldwide in 2025, with 65 such instances reported.