When Is Power Justified? A Study Analysing Authority And Arbitrary Rule
- IJLLR Journal
- Dec 12, 2025
- 1 min read
Ms. Prasanna Mour, Pravin Gandhi College of Law
ABSTRACT
The ban on Pakistani social media accounts in India in 2025, enacted under the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, presents the acceptable standards between prioritising national security while upholding constitutional values. While the government’s use of power under Section 69A is highlighted as legally justified in protecting sovereignty and public order, the nature of the ban raises controversies about proportionality, transparency, and fundamental rights under Article 19.
The case study explored in the paper exemplifies the issues of maintaining digital content in an evolving geopolitical environment stirred by conflict and heightened sensitivities. The ban therefore, resonates with the state’s response to security threats and harsh digital propaganda. But, it remains necessary to use power in a legitimate manner, wherein democratic principles are reinforced along with maintaining constitutional morality.
The research paper suggests simple yet effective solutions to advance with the legal framework of the IT Act. These workable solutions include the need for digital literacy, understanding misinformation at ground levels and providing transparent procedures to conduct targeted blocking of data online. Therefore, while evaluating the situation of the ban of Pakistani social media accounts, it is essential to consider the long-term transformation of the digital landscape in India.
Keywords: Legitimacy, Power, Authority, National Security, Technology, Ban
