A delegation from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) has formally requested an investigation into the alleged misuse of Information Technology laws aimed at suppressing social media content that criticises the government of Andhra Pradesh. This meeting took place at Parliament House on July 21, 2026, and was led by MP YV Subba Reddy, who engaged with Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi and Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The focus of the discussion revolved around legal requests purportedly made for the removal of critical postings on social media platforms. The YSRCP officials presented a detailed representation highlighting the importance of evaluating whether the statutory processes outlined in the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, were adhered to.

Concerns Over Suppression of Free Speech

The YSRCP MPs expressed concerns that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Andhra Pradesh allegedly submitted legal requests to the platform X, seeking the removal of posts made by opposition leaders, journalists, political activists, and everyday citizens. According to their representation, these requests purportedly encompassed over 770 social media posts across more than 150 accounts.

Among the accounts targeted reportedly are those belonging to the Leader of the Opposition, journalists, and various political and civil stakeholders. The MPs highlighted that if these allegations hold true, they could pose serious constitutional issues regarding the right to freedom of speech and expression, as enshrined under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.

There are further implications suggested by the delegation, including potential misuse of criminal law, the stifling of democratic debate, and an urgent need for improved transparency and accountability in government interactions with intermediary platforms.

Call for Greater Oversight and Accountability

The YSRCP MPs are advocating for the Union Government to initiate an independent inquiry into the circumstances that led to these takedown requests. They have requested verification to confirm that all required procedures were strictly followed under the Information Technology Act and relevant regulations.

In their interactions with the ministers, the MPs emphasised the necessity to ensure that legal powers are not exercised selectively against political figures and citizens. They underscored their commitment to safeguarding constitutional rights and insisted on fostering a political environment where dissent and opposition are not silenced.

The delegation concluded their representation by stressing the importance of preserving democratic integrity and maintaining robust mechanisms against the misuse of legal frameworks which may serve to undermine citizens’ rights to free expression.

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