The Indian government has directed GitHub to block the encrypted messaging app Bitchat, citing national security concerns during the ongoing protests against the Central Judicial Process (CJP). The move comes as authorities intensify efforts to curb misinformation and coordination among protestors.
Government's Directive to GitHub
According to sources in the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the government issued an order under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, directing GitHub to remove or disable access to the Bitchat repository and its associated code. The app, which uses peer-to-peer encryption, has been allegedly used to organize protests and spread content deemed inflammatory by authorities.
GitHub, a Microsoft-owned platform for software development, confirmed receipt of the takedown request. A spokesperson for GitHub stated that the company reviews such requests carefully and complies with applicable laws while striving to minimize disruption to legitimate users. However, GitHub has not yet publicly commented on whether it will comply fully.
Why Bitchat Was Targeted
Bitchat is a decentralized messaging application that allows users to communicate without a central server, making it difficult for authorities to intercept messages. During the CJP protests, which began in early July 2026, the app gained popularity among demonstrators for its anonymity features. Government officials claim that Bitchat was used to coordinate illegal activities, including traffic blockades and clashes with police.
A senior official in the Ministry of Home Affairs said, "The app has become a tool for anarchists to challenge state authority. We have evidence that its users are sharing information to disrupt public order." The official added that the decision was taken after multiple intelligence inputs flagged Bitchat as a security risk.
Legal and Technical Implications
The blocking of an open-source project on GitHub raises questions about the balance between security and free expression. Legal experts point out that Section 69A allows the government to block content in the interest of sovereignty, security, or public order. However, critics argue that the order is overreaching and could stifle innovation.
- GitHub hosts not only the app's code but also forks and clones. Blocking the main repository may not prevent access if code is mirrored elsewhere.
- The government may also request internet service providers to block the app's domain and IP addresses, though Bitchat uses P2P connections that are hard to throttle.
- Developers of Bitchat have already moved their code to other platforms such as GitLab, circumventing the block.
Impact on CJP Protests
The protests, led by a coalition of civil society groups and opposition parties, demand reforms in the judicial appointment process. The government maintains that the protests are being fueled by misinformation spread via encrypted apps. By targeting Bitchat, authorities hope to reduce the coordination capacity of protestors.
However, protest leaders say the crackdown will not deter them. "We have alternative ways to communicate. This is an attack on our right to assemble and speak freely," said a spokesperson for the protest coordination committee.
As of now, the CJP protests continue in several states, with no immediate resolution in sight. The government has not ruled out further measures against other communication platforms if deemed necessary.
