Software Freedom Law Center Wins Instagram Restoration

Authority: Supreme Court of India, Bench of Hon'ble Mr. Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha and Hon'ble Mr. Justice Alok Aradhe

Order Date: 17-08-2026

Case Overview

• Petitioners: Software Freedom Law Center, India & others (referred to as "Petitioner(s)")
• Respondents: Union of India & others (referred to as "Respondent(s)")
• Writ Petition (Civil) No. 576 of 2026 filed seeking restoration of the Petitioner's Instagram handle "@aapgujarat" and Facebook page "@aapgujarat".
• Two interim applications were filed: IA No. 178565/2026 (seeking appropriate orders/directions) and IA No. 137702/2026 (seeking grant of interim relief).
• Senior counsel for the petitioners argued for the restoration of the social media accounts.
• The Court heard counsel for both parties on the interim applications.

Final Outcome

• The Court allowed IA No. 178565/2026 to the extent indicated, directing the respondents to restore the Petitioner's Instagram handle "@aapgujarat" and Facebook page "@aapgujarat".
• Restoration is subject to the removal of any objectionable material from the accounts.
• The writ petitions are to be listed for further hearing on 11 September 2026, along with other connected matters.

Topics: Social Media, Interim Relief, Court Order