India's I4C orders GitHub to block BitChat repo amid terror fears

India's cybercrime coordination centre (I4C) has ordered GitHub to block access to the BitChat repository, a decentralized mesh messaging app created by Jack Dorsey, within three hours of receiving the notice. The app facilitates anonymous communication without internet or central servers, raising concerns for law enforcement regarding interception and investigation capabilities. The government linked BitChat to risks including illegal assembly and terrorist misuse.

GitHub's response to the blocking request is currently unclear, and while the repository could be restricted, the open-source nature of BitChat means the app itself may still be accessible through other channels.