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The blocking of Proton Mail in India has sparked a new debate over encrypted communications and digital freedom.
The Karnataka High Court recently ordered the Indian government to block access to Proton Mail. This decision follows a legal complaint from M Moser Design Associates, which reported receiving obscene emails through the encrypted service. As Proton Mail declined to reveal the sender’s identity, citing its privacy policies, the firm demanded action under India’s Information Technology Act.
Proton Mail, headquartered in Switzerland, is known for its end-to-end encryption. This feature prevents anyone, even Proton itself, from accessing user content. Critics argue that the blocking of Proton Mail in India won’t stop criminals but will hurt ordinary users trying to safeguard their communication.
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Encryption under fire in India
The ruling is not an isolated case. In 2023, Tamil Nadu police also attempted to block Proton Mail after it was allegedly used for bomb hoaxes. However, intervention by Swiss authorities stopped that block. This year’s case, though, might be harder to reverse.
Proton Mail said previously that blocking the service punishes law-abiding users without solving the root issue. Cybercriminals, they argue, can just switch to another provider. Despite that, Indian courts seem determined to hold secure platforms accountable for non-cooperation.
The blocking of Proton Mail in India raises complex legal and ethical questions. Should encrypted services be forced to compromise their security for legal investigations? Or does this violate global norms around privacy and free speech?
Legal experts point out that India could have pursued mutual legal assistance treaties with Swiss authorities. But instead, the court chose a direct ban. This could set a precedent for future blocks against encrypted tools, VPNs, and private messaging apps.
The decision also puts internet service providers in a tough spot. They may now be expected to comply with court-ordered blocks of platforms that don’t even operate directly within Indian jurisdiction.
Proton Mail remains accessible — for now
As of now, the blocking of Proton Mail in India has not been enforced. The website remains accessible. However, the Ministry of IT may soon instruct ISPs to proceed with the ban.
Digital rights advocates are urging the government to reconsider. They say such bans threaten the foundation of a free internet. Others warn this move may drive more users toward alternative tools that are harder to regulate.
The battle over Proton Mail reflects a broader global tension — balancing security needs with personal privacy. In India, that battle just got sharper.
