The Free Software Movement of India expresses deep concern over sections of the Ministry of Home Affairs order dated May 1 with regard to the Aarogya Setu app. The order mandates 100% use of the app in containment zones and the use of the app in all workplaces where restrictions are being eased. The app which was initially voluntary has now been made mandatory despite concerns of both efficiency and privacy.

The Free Software Movement of India condemns the atrocious internet shutdowns across the country to stop democratic protests. In this year alone there have been 93 instances where the government shut down the internet in various places and more recently in Assam and Meghalaya. These actions by different arms of the government have made India no 1 in terms of shutting down the internet in the world, even surpassing authoritarian countries with dictators. Shutting down the internet achieves no purpose and in fact,  increases harm to people in the country.

The Free Software Movement of India strongly condemns the targeted surveillance of activists, lawyers and journalists with the Israeli Pegasus spyware. WhatsApp itself has accepted that over 1,400 people were targeted globally through its platform. The targets include over 40 politicians (earlier reported to be 24), lawyers, journalists and academics in India. Many of those targeted are involved in the Bhima Koregaon case while others are prominent critics of the government.