Archive · 24 Jul 2026
Meta Blocks Pro-Umar Khalid Instagram Account in India
Meta, the company that owns Instagram, has blocked access to an account in India that was asking for the release of a jailed student activist named Umar Khalid.
The account had about 48,000 followers and shared updates about Khalid's case.
When people in India try to access this account, they see a message saying the content is not available because Meta followed a legal request.
Meta hasn't said why exactly they blocked the account, which is their usual practice when they get requests from governments.
Meta restricted access to the Instagram account @free.umarkhalid in India.
The account had 48,000 followers and campaigned for Umar Khalid's release.
Users in India see a notice stating the content is unavailable due to legal compliance.
Meta has not disclosed the specific grounds for the restriction.
Free speech advocates criticize the restriction, while authorities support it for legal reasons.
- Who
- Meta and Indian authorities
- What
- Restriction of an Instagram account campaigning for Umar Khalid's release
- When
- Not specified
- Where
- India
- Why
- Compliance with a legal request from Indian authorities
Free Speech Advocates
Government Authorities
Account Restriction
Free Speech Advocates
Criticize Meta for restricting access, arguing it suppresses free speech and activism.
Government Authorities
Support the restriction, citing legal grounds and national security concerns.
- Account Name
- @free.umarkhalid
- Followers
- 48,000
- Content Focus
- Campaign for Umar Khalid's release
- Restriction Notice
- Content unavailable due to legal request compliance
- Meta's Stance
- Does not disclose specific grounds for restriction