India Blocks 11,800-Follower Account

The Instagram account of the 'Stop Vizag Data Centers' campaign has been temporarily restricted in India, with the account currently unavailable to users in the country. The account had garnered significant attention, with more than 56 lakh views and 11,800 followers within two months.

The restriction was made pursuant to legal requirements under India's Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules. Prior to the account-level action, nine posts had been restricted in India in the weeks preceding.

The 'Stop Vizag Data Centers' campaign has raised concerns over the development of AI data centres in and around Visakhapatnam, citing a lack of transparency and socio-ecological costs associated with such projects. The movement has been vocal about the potential impacts of large-scale AI data centres on water resources, electricity demand, and local temperatures.

A public awareness programme was held on Sunday along Beach Road in Visakhapatnam to educate people about the potential impacts of AI data centres. The programme was conducted by Green Visakha, an environmental NGO, with participation from a student organisation.

## Why it matters The restriction of the 'Stop Vizag Data Centers' account has significant implications for freedom of speech and the ability of citizens to raise concerns about large-scale projects. The movement has announced a backup Instagram account to continue posting, but the restriction has already sparked concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.

The 'Stop Vizag Data Centers' account was restricted on Saturday, September 19, and the movement has demanded that Meta restore the account. The restriction has also raised questions about the impact of India's IT rules on online speech and the ability of citizens to hold those in power accountable.