Twitter can't seek protection under Article 19, don't give relief: Centre to Karnataka HC

Twitter cannot take protection under Article 19 of the Constitution which ensures freedom of speech and expression.

Published By: Md Waquar Haider | Published: Mar 17, 2023, 02:04 PM (IST)

Highlights

  • Twitter cannot take protection under Article 19.
  • The Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression.
  • Twitter had challenged the blocking orders by the central government.

The Centre has submitted to the Karnataka High Court that American microblogging platform Twitter cannot take protection under Article 19 of the Constitution which ensures freedom of speech and expression. Also Read: Elon Musk Twitter controversy: The real reason behind Why he is paying $1.5 million

The Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression to Indian citizens and not to foreigners and foreign entities, the Additional Solicitor General (South) R. Sankaranarayanan representing the central government submitted to the High Court on Thursday. Also Read: After XChat, Elon Musk plans X Money for payments and banking: What you need to know

Twitter had challenged the blocking orders by the central government between February 2, 2021 and February 28, 2022. The American microblogging platform alleged that the orders "are arbitrary". Also Read: X introduces automatic post translation: How it helps users read posts in their preferred language

"Twitter can't seek protection under Article 19 as it is a foreign company. There is nothing arbitrary under Article 14, and Section 69 (A) is properly followed," stated Additional Solicitor General, and urged the court not to give any relief to Twitter.

The matter has been adjourned to April 10.

IANS

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