NewDelhi: India issued a stern warning to social media platforms following a surge in hoax bomb threats targeting Indian airlines. These threats, totaling over 275 reported incidents (with some media suggesting nearly 400), have caused significant disruptions, including flight diversions to Canada and Germany and the scrambling of fighter jets over Britain and Singapore. The government labeled the spread of these threats as "dangerously unrestrained," noting the severe impact on both public safety and the country’s economic security.

In a statement, the Indian government warned that social media platforms may face "consequential action" if they fail to promptly remove misinformation. The Information Technology Ministry highlighted that options like "forwarding" or "re-sharing" content on social platforms contributed to the unchecked spread of the threats, which undermine public order and national security.

India's civil aviation authority has been on high alert, checking each flight threatened by social media posts, many of which appeared on X (formerly Twitter). The government is also considering "legislative action" to enhance aviation security laws, which could increase penalties for those making false bomb threats.

India regularly ranks among the top five countries requesting social media content removal, often citing national security concerns. In 2022, an Indian court fined X $61,000 after it challenged orders to remove content critical of the government.