Directions issued to block 9,845 URLs with alleged radical content, till Oct this year

NEW DELHI: Describing the use of secure messaging platforms like Whatsapp, Signal, Telegram, Viber and Dark Web by the radical elements to connect with like-minded persons as a major challenge in counter-radicalisation efforts, the home ministry on Wednesday said the govt has issued directions for blocking 9,845 URLs, which featured radical content, till Oct this year.
In written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, junior home minister Nityanand Rai also shared that NIA was investigating 67 cases relating to online radicalisation, in which 325 accused were arrested, 336 accused chargesheeted and 63 accused convicted.
Sharing that the Interpol had, in January this year, flagged the issue of radicalisation and warned that terrorists may exploit the Metaverse for online recruitment, radicalisation, training and indoctrination of individuals, the home ministry told the Rajya Sabha that regular meetings were being held with stakeholders and law enforcement agencies for sharing of inputs on radical outfits. The aim was to collectively address multiple risk factors associated with radicalisation, in a holistic and coordinated manner, and chalk out an effective strategy to counter radicalisation.
“As the extensive use of cyber technology is the main tool for propagating radical ideology, cyber space is being monitored ceaselessly. Cyber patrolling is done on a regular basis to identify and monitor such content and entities which are targeting gullible/depressed/alienated youth. Websites/accounts involved in communal and anti-India propaganda affecting sovereignty and integrity of India are being identified and sent to the ministry of electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) for taking action,” said Rai.
MeitY, to tackle such content, issues directions under Section 69A of the IT Act, which empowers the govt to block information from public access in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order and for preventing incitement to the commission of any cognizable offence relating to above.
In addition, Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the MHA has also been authorized to issue ‘take down notices’ to an intermediary/platform to remove unlawful content.