The Indian government recently instructed Microsoft’s GitHub to take down the BitChat messaging platform, a decision taken during a period of heightened protests. With the app’s perceived risk for misuse cited as justification, critics argue that this ban endangers essential privacy rights and free speech. As the courts now assess this directive, concerns grow over increased state control over communication.

The order targets Bitchat, an offline Bluetooth mesh app built to relay encrypted messages and bitcoin transactions, as 'Cockroach Janta Party' protesters in Delhi use mesh tools…

The order gave GitHub three hours to pull three code repositories, citing the messaging app's use during protest internet shutdowns.

Government orders GitHub to block Bitchat amid Delhi protests, raising concerns over digital rights and internet freedom.