The official X (formerly Twitter) account of international news agency Reuters is currently inaccessible in India, showing a notice that reads: "Account withheld in India in response to a legal demand." However, the reason behind this restriction remains unclear, and Reuters has not yet provided a formal explanation.
According to a report published by NDTV on Sunday, July 6, the Indian government has denied any involvement. A government spokesperson stated, "There has been no request from the Government of India to block Reuters’ account. We are in touch with X to resolve the issue."
While speculation grows over the cause, some sources suggest the action may stem from an older legal request. During recent tensions with Pakistan, the Indian government had requested the suspension of several social media accounts, and Reuters was reportedly on that list. However, at the time, its account remained active, even as others were restricted.
Indian news agency PTI, citing unnamed sources, reported that Reuters' X account may be restored soon. Notably, affiliated accounts such as Reuters Tech News, Reuters Fact Check, Reuters Asia, and Reuters China remain accessible in India. However, the main Reuters and Reuters World accounts are currently blocked.
Users attempting to access the primary Reuters handle in India are met with a message stating: "Account suspended. @Reuters has been withheld in India in response to a legal demand."
X’s Help Center clarifies that content or account restrictions imposed on a regional basis typically result from valid legal demands, such as court orders or compliance with local laws.
