Twitter Fined 50 Lakhs: Karnataka HC Order For Not Blocking Tweets Despite Centre's Order
The Karnataka High Court on Friday dismissed Twitter's petition against the Centre's order. Twitter challenged the central government's order to block accounts, tweets and URLs of some people in the court. During the hearing, Justice Krishna S Dixit said that Twitter should have followed the orders of the government. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 50 lakh on Twitter.
What did Twitter argue in the petition?
Twitter had told the High Court – The Center does not have the right to issue a general order to block accounts on social media. The reason for such orders should also be mentioned so that we can communicate it to the users. If the reason is not given at the time of issuing the order, then there is a possibility that reasons can be made later.
Twitter had claimed that the government orders violate section 69A. Under section 69A, account users have to give information about their tweets and account being blocked. But the ministry did not give him any notice.
High Court's 5 comments, condition along with fine
1. The fine has to be paid within 45 days. If not filled then every day after this 5 thousand more will have to be given.
2. Didn't even tell the reason to the court why the order to block the tweet of the Center was not accepted.
3. You are a multi-billionaire company, not a farmer or a common man, who does not know the law.
4. Knowing that for disobeying the order, imprisonment of up to 7 years and fine can be imposed. Twitter did not follow the orders of the government.
5. Tell the reason to whose tweet you are blocking. Also whether this ban is for some time or for an indefinite period.
What did the central government say on Twitter's plea?
The central government told the court – Twitter cannot speak on behalf of its users. In this case, he has no right to file an appeal in the court. The order to block the tweet was not taken without discretion or unilaterally. Keeping in mind the national interest, orders were given to block Twitter, so that incidents of lynching and mob violence could be prevented.