Some Indian ISPs Seem to Be Blocking Porn Websites

Users on Reddit and Twitter are reporting that some Indian ISPs are blocking popular porn sites. NDTV Gadgets has been able to independently confirm that customers of MTNL and Hathway in Mumbai are greeted by a blank page when visiting websites like Youporn and Pornhub, but websites seem to be loading just fine on Airtel in Delhi.

"11 out of these top 13 porn sites showing blank pages here on Spectranet in Delhi," wrote one Reddit user. MTNL users on the same thread report conflicting versions, with some saying websites have been blocked, and others contradicting that statement.

Some users of other ISPs like BSNL and ACT Broadband are also reporting blocks, with many saying they are greeted by the message "This site has been blocked as per the instruction of the competent authority" when visiting popular porn websites.

There has been talk of banning porn websites in the country, but the Supreme Court recently declined a plea to pass an interim order to block porn websites in India.

"Such interim orders cannot be passed by this court. Somebody may come to the court and say look I am above 18 and how can you stop me from watching it within the four walls of my room. It is a violation of Article 21 [right to personal liberty]," Chief Justice H.L. Dattu reportedly said last month.

The Chief Justice had asked the government to reply within four weeks.

Is your ISP blocking any websites? Leave a comment with your location and the name of your ISP.