The decision comes amid ongoing protests in the country, highlighting a fresh clash between encrypted communications, state control, and digital rights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On July 23, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, issued an order to Microsoft-owned GitHub. The directive requested the removal of three repositories linked to Bitchat: the project\u2019s core code, the Android version, and the release page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to reporting by The Hindu<\/a><\/strong>, the platform was given a tight three-hour window to restrict access to the content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The order cites Section 79(3)(b) of the Indian Information Technology Act and Rule 3(1)(d) of its associated implementation rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bitchat is an encrypted messaging application that operates via a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) network between devices. It functions without an internet connection, phone number, SIM card, or central server.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Instead of relying on traditional internet infrastructure, the app builds a mesh network where devices relay messages to one another. This specific architecture sits at the heart of the Indian authorities\u2019 concerns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to the I4C notice, the absence of a central server and the capability for encrypted device-to-device communication \u201csignificantly hinder lawful interception, user identification, and the conduct of investigations.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n The actions by Indian authorities coincide with ongoing student protests in New Delhi, including demonstrations related to the CJP initiative and NEET exams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During some of these protests, mobile internet was temporarily suspended in parts of the Indian capital, with officials citing the need to maintain public order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Authorities argue that applications like Bitchat could allow protesters to maintain communication despite internet blackouts. They claim this creates a risk for coordinating illegal activities, bypassing state control, and spreading misinformation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Jack Dorsey shared a copy of the government order via <\/p> the government of india does not like technologies like bitchat and wants it taken down pic.twitter.com\/gjzMg1NGCi<\/a><\/p>\u2014 jack (@jack) July 24, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>What is Bitchat?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Decision Follows Protests and Internet Blackouts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Jack Dorsey Criticizes the Move<\/h2>\n\n\n\n