The Delhi High Court refused immediate relief to Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke on his petition challenging the blocking of the party’s X handle on national security grounds.
Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav issued notice to the Centre and directed Dipke to approach the review committee set up under the IT Rules. The judge remarked that these matters carry far-reaching consequences and must be examined thoroughly.
Dipke, represented by advocates Vrinda Grover, Akhil Sibal, and Nakul Gandhi, sought restoration of the account and permission to appear virtually before the committee. The court granted liberty to Dipke to join the proceedings through video conference.
The Cockroach Janta Party’s X handle was withheld in India on May 21 after the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology acted on inputs from the Intelligence Bureau, citing national security concerns. The ministry invoked Section 69(A) of the Information Technology Act, which empowers the government to restrict access to information in the interest of sovereignty, security, public order, or prevention of offences.
The account remains accessible outside India. Petitioners argued that the blocking was arbitrary and violated free speech, but the court declined to order interim relief.
The case highlights the growing debate over digital freedom, censorship, and the balance between national security and the right to protest. The review committee will now examine Dipke’s plea before deciding on further action.
