Kunal Kamra challenges Sahyog Portal in Bombay High Court; flags police takedown powers

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has told the Bombay High Court that allowing even a low-ranking police officer to order the removal of online content they consider “objectionable” represents a “worse situation” for free speech.

Challenge to Sahyog Portal and IT Rules

Kamra approached the high court in February 2026, challenging the constitutional validity of the government’s ‘Sahyog Portal’ along with the 2025 amendment to Rule 3(1)(d) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

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During the hearing, he argued that these measures enable arbitrary takedowns of online content without adequate safeguards.

“Unchecked powers” to officials

The comedian contended that the framework effectively grants sweeping powers to government officials at both central and state levels to order content removal.

He told the court that a scenario where “an ordinary policeman” can direct takedown of content deemed objectionable highlights the risks of misuse and lack of oversight.

Grounds of constitutional challenge

In his petition, filed through advocate Meenaz Kakalia, Kamra described the Sahyog Portal as an “unconstitutional and unreasonable” attack on freedom of speech.

He argued that the rules allow authorities to issue takedown or blocking orders without following procedures laid down under the Information Technology Act, 2000.

The plea further stated that such powers go beyond the reasonable restrictions permitted under Article 19(2) of the Constitution of India and leave online content vulnerable to arbitrary action with little recourse.

Government’s position on Sahyog Portal

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Sahyog Portal is designed to streamline and automate the process of sending notices to intermediaries under the IT Act.

The platform aims to bring authorised agencies and intermediaries onto a single system to enable swift action against unlawful online content.

What is the Sahyog Portal?

The Sahyog Portal is an online system developed by the government to facilitate the removal or blocking of information, data, or communication links used for unlawful activities, by enabling faster coordination between authorities and digital platforms.

The matter remains under consideration before the Bombay High Court.