Musk’s X Reaffirms Commitment to Free Speech, Appeals Indian Court Ruling
Bengaluru / New Delhi – Elon Musk’s social media platform X announced on Monday that it will appeal an Indian court ruling on content takedown requests, reaffirming its commitment to freedom of speech and expression while respecting Indian law.
The company, which has consistently positioned itself as a champion of open dialogue, said it remains “deeply concerned” about the broader implications of the ruling for online discourse in the world’s most populous democracy.
X emphasized that while it complies with Indian regulations, it also has a responsibility to safeguard the fundamental right to free expression. “We respectfully disagree with the view that our incorporation abroad limits our ability to raise these concerns,” the platform noted, stressing its belief in constructive engagement with governments while defending user rights.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has expanded online oversight mechanisms since 2023, aiming to curb unlawful content and strengthen accountability on digital platforms. While officials underline the importance of balancing liberty with responsibility, X maintains that a fair and transparent approach is vital to protecting users’ voices.
Musk, often described as a free-speech advocate, has previously engaged in similar debates with governments worldwide over compliance and content regulations. However, the company reiterated that it will pursue all legal avenues in India to ensure a balance between regulation and digital freedoms.
Observers note that the appeal underscores the platform’s determination to work with Indian authorities while also protecting democratic values in a rapidly growing digital market. India, home to one of the largest user bases for X, remains central to the company’s global vision of enabling open and secure online communication.
With the appeal, X has signaled that it seeks not confrontation, but collaboration—ensuring that India’s digital future is both innovative and inclusive.
