Modi’s Office Calls Telecom Chief to Account for Blocking Websites

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s office has summoned Telecom Secretary Amit Agrawal to explain the recent blocking of over 100 websites based on allegedly forged court orders. This unprecedented action raises serious questions about the integrity of the telecommunications regulatory process in India.

According to two government officials, Agrawal, who is the highest-ranking bureaucrat in the telecommunications ministry, was abruptly called back from an official trip to another state to address the issue. The summons comes amid growing concerns regarding the misuse of legal authority and the potential implications for freedom of expression in the digital space.

The incident highlights a troubling trend in which government agencies may be overstepping their bounds, potentially infringing on citizens’ rights. Critics argue that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for censorship and undermine public trust in governmental institutions.

In response to the summons, Agrawal is expected to provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the website blocks during an upcoming meeting with senior officials. The outcome of this inquiry could lead to significant policy changes within the telecommunications sector.