Mumbai: Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has approached the Bombay High Court, challenging the government’s ‘Sahyog’ portal and the amended Information Technology (IT) Rules, terming them unconstitutional and a direct attack on freedom of expression.
In his petition filed on Wednesday, Kamra questioned the amendments made to the IT Rules in October 2025, arguing that the Sahyog portal enables arbitrary removal of online content without following the due legal process prescribed under the Information Technology Act, 2000. He contended that the framework gives sweeping powers to both Central and state government officials to issue takedown or blocking orders on social media platforms.
According to the government, the Sahyog portal was introduced to streamline and automate the process through which authorised agencies send notices to intermediaries for removing or disabling access to online information that is allegedly being used for unlawful activities. The platform is intended to bring government agencies and digital intermediaries together to ensure swift action against illegal content.
However, Kamra’s plea, filed through advocate Meenaz Kakalia, argued that Rule 3(1)(d) of the IT Rules and the Sahyog portal allow takedowns based on vague and undefined grounds. The petition stated that such provisions violate constitutional safeguards and impose unreasonable restrictions on free speech.
The comedian further claimed that the powers granted under the amended rules go beyond the limitations permitted under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, which specifies the grounds on which free speech can be restricted. He warned that the mechanism leaves online content vulnerable to arbitrary action, without providing an effective remedy or appeal process for those affected.
Kamra also expressed concern that the system effectively places unchecked authority in the hands of thousands of government officials across the country, increasing the risk of misuse.
The petition is expected to come up for hearing before the Bombay High Court in the coming days.
