Why Bitchat matters in CJP protests: The app that works without internet

The Indian government has reportedly asked GitHub to remove repositories of Bitchat, a Bluetooth-based messaging application developed by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, citing concerns that the app could be used to bypass internet shutdowns and make law enforcement investigations more difficult during public-order situations.

The development has drawn attention amid the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests in Delhi, where authorities reportedly examined the use of alternative communication tools after mobile internet restrictions were imposed in parts of the national capital.

What is Bitchat?

Bitchat is a decentralised messaging application created by Jack Dorsey that allows users to communicate without depending on mobile networks, Wi-Fi, phone numbers or central servers.

The app works through Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh networking technology. Instead of sending messages through telecom networks or internet servers, it allows nearby devices running Bitchat to connect with each other and pass messages from one device to another.

This means a message can travel across a network of nearby phones, even when regular internet services are unavailable.

Unlike popular messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram, Bitchat does not require users to create accounts or register phone numbers.

Why has Bitchat become a matter of concern for the government?

According to a notice reportedly issued by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs and shared by Dorsey on X, the government directed GitHub to remove three repositories linked to Bitchat.

The notice reportedly stated that the app's decentralised structure could make lawful interception, identification of users and investigation of offences more difficult.

The government described Bitchat as: "A communication platform capable of establishing decentralized peer-to-peer messaging over Bluetooth mesh networks without relying on mobile networks, internet connectivity, or centralized servers."

The notice reportedly raised concerns that such platforms could potentially be misused for coordinating unlawful gatherings, spreading misinformation or facilitating criminal activities during sensitive situations.

What action has the government taken?

The notice directed GitHub to disable access to repositories hosting Bitchat under provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Information Technology Rules, 2021.

The order reportedly cited:

• Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000
• Rule 3(1)(d) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021

The government asked GitHub to remove access to three Bitchat repositories, including the main project repository and its Android version.

Jack Dorsey later shared screenshots of the notice on X, bringing the issue into public discussion.

Why is the app linked to CJP protests?

The Bitchat controversy emerged during the ongoing CJP protests in Delhi over alleged examination irregularities and paper leaks.

After mobile internet services were suspended in parts of central Delhi during the protests, reports suggested that some demonstrators explored Bluetooth-based communication tools to remain connected.

However, authorities have not confirmed that Bitchat itself was used by protesters.

Delhi Police are reportedly examining whether alternative communication applications were used during the demonstrations as part of their broader investigation into events surrounding the protests.

How does Bluetooth messaging work?

Traditional messaging apps rely on internet connections and central servers. Messages usually travel through company-controlled infrastructure before reaching the receiver.

Bluetooth mesh messaging works differently:

• Nearby phones connect directly through Bluetooth.
• Each device can act as a relay point.
• Messages move from one device to another until they reach the intended recipient.
• No mobile data connection or central server is required.
• This technology can be useful during:
• Natural disasters when networks fail
• Remote areas with poor connectivity
• Emergency situations
• Large gatherings where internet access is restricted

However, the same features can make monitoring and tracing communications more difficult.

Why is the issue significant?

The Bitchat row highlights a larger debate around digital privacy, internet restrictions and government oversight of communication platforms.

Supporters of decentralised messaging tools argue that they provide a way to communicate during network failures and protect user privacy.

Governments, however, have raised concerns that platforms operating outside traditional communication networks may create challenges for preventing crimes, investigating incidents and maintaining public order.

The controversy comes at a time when the CJP protests have become a major political issue, with demonstrators demanding accountability over alleged examination paper leaks and calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Background: CJP protests and communication restrictions

The CJP protests began after allegations of irregularities in national-level competitive examinations triggered student demonstrations.

The movement expanded with demands for reforms in the examination system, action against those responsible for alleged paper leaks and accountability from the government.

During major demonstrations in Delhi, authorities imposed restrictions in certain areas to manage public order. The use of alternative communication technologies during such situations has now become part of the wider debate surrounding the protests.

The Bitchat controversy is therefore not only about one app but also about the growing challenge of balancing digital privacy, public safety and government oversight in an increasingly connected world.