Digital Siege: 1400+ URLs Blocked in Anti-Fake News Crackdown
The Indian government launched a major offensive against online disinformation, blocking over 1400 digital media URLs under Operation Sindoor. The action, taken on July 30, 2025, targeted content deemed to spread false narratives and incite against the nation.
The majority of the blocked URLs originated from sources outside India. The content included fabricated news, communally sensitive material, and inflammatory posts targeting the armed forces.
The government invoked Section 69A of the Information Technology Act to justify the blocking of these websites and online platforms. This section empowers authorities to take down content deemed harmful to national security or public order.
This decisive move highlights the government’s commitment to combating the spread of misinformation, particularly during times of heightened tension and social sensitivity. The effectiveness of such large-scale blocking operations in curbing online propaganda, however, remains a subject of ongoing debate among experts and civil liberties advocates. The long-term implications for freedom of expression in the digital sphere warrant careful consideration.
