Facebook, Google Respond to India Censorship Requests

Yesterday we brought you news that Indian telecommunications minister Kapil Sibal was planning to meet with representatives of Google, Facebook, and others to ask that they screen content his office deemed objectionable, so that it could not be posted to the companies’ sites. He cited a page critical of a major government figure as an example of the kind of content he wanted removed.

We have learned this morning that Facebook and Google have issued responses to Mr. Sibal. In a statement to the Times of India, Facebook promised to remove any content that came to their attention as being in violation of their terms of service, but would go no further.

In a similar statement issued Indian news network IBN, Google stated that it would remove content found to be in violation of either the law or Google’s terms of service. The company emphasized its commitment to the free exchange of information and respect for disparate viewpoints, and so stated that it would not remove content simply because it is controversial.

Meanwhile, Minister Sibal told the press that he had been in contact with Google, Facebook, and Microsoft, and Yahoo on this issue, and that they had declined to cooperate with his office’s request. He denied that his proposal constitutes censorship, arguing instead that he was seeking only to protect the sensibilities – particularly the religious sensibilities – of those who might be offended by what he regards as derogatory or incendiary content.

In light of the companies’ refusal to participate, Mr. Sibal took something of a hard line, saying that since they were “not willing to cooperate on incendiary material” the government would have to step in with a solution of its own. He claimed that the goal was not to hinder the freedom of the press, but nevertheless “this kind of material should not be allowed.”

As might be expected, reactions on Twitter have been fierce. Five of the top ten trending topics in India were related to this issue, with referencing Sibal directly – Kapil Sibal, and #IdiotKapilSibal.

One user suggests that the Indian government would be better served by appropriately managing its presence on social media.

Another expresses confusion over whom, precisely, Mr. Sibal believes he is protecting.

While another expressed his exasperation with politicians in general.

Yet another points out the inevitable results of censorship.

Two users approach the situation with a bit more humor.

A request to Google for further comment has not yet been answered. Check back later for more information as this story continues to develop.

(Image credit: Amit Agarwal.)