Journo Mirror’s official Instagram account has been restricted in India, with a message on the platform citing legal requirements under the country’s Information Technology Rules.
The development comes as the digital news platform was covering protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and related developments.
In a statement, the Journo Mirror editorial team said the restriction had affected its ability to reach readers and viewers through Instagram. The platform described the move as a concern for independent journalism and freedom of expression.
Account Had 37.8 Million Views in 30 Days
According to Journo Mirror, its Instagram account had hundreds of thousands of followers and recorded 37.8 million views in the 30 days before the restriction.
The editorial team said the action had reduced the reach of its reporting and limited public access to its news coverage.
“Restricting access to a news platform is not merely a matter concerning a single digital account,” the statement said. “It affects the ability of millions of readers and viewers to access news and information.”
The platform said it regularly covers issues affecting marginalised communities, disadvantaged groups, human rights and other matters of public interest.
Legal Basis for Restriction Not Specified
The message displayed on Instagram reportedly stated that the account’s availability had been temporarily restricted to comply with legal requirements under India’s Information Technology Rules.
However, the statement issued by Journo Mirror did not provide details of a specific legal order or identify the provision under which the restriction was imposed.
The exact grounds for the action remain unclear from the information provided by the platform.
Journo Mirror Says It Will Continue Reporting
Journo Mirror said its editorial approach centred on bringing facts to the public, questioning those in power and providing space for voices that often receive limited representation in mainstream media.
“Despite the restriction on our Instagram account, we remain committed to continuing our journalistic work and delivering news to our readers and viewers through available platforms,” the editorial team said.
The platform reiterated its commitment to independent and public-interest journalism, saying it would continue its reporting despite the restriction on its Instagram account.
