The bench stated that a complete shutdown at this stage would be inappropriate. The issue will remain under review, according to Bar and Bench reports.
Karnataka HC halts Proton Mail blocking order
The order was made by a Division Bench which included Chief Justice Vibhu Bhakru and Justice CM Poonacha. The court was examining an appeal from Proton Mail against a previous directive from a single-judge bench.
This earlier ruling raised alarms regarding the platform’s anonymity features. The court noted that these features could, in specific circumstances, hinder authorities from tracking users involved in illegal activities, as reported by Bar and Bench.
This concern led to the recommendation to block the service.
Case background: Concerns over anonymity and misuse
The case originates from a petition filed by M Moser Design Associates India. The firm claimed that some employees received vulgar and abusive emails sent via Proton Mail.
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According to the petition, these messages were also shared with clients, which the company argued caused damage to its reputation.
In earlier proceedings, the single-judge bench took a stern approach, as noted in the Bar and Bench report. It highlighted allegations that the platform had been used for threats and other illegal communications.
Response from Proton Mail
Before the Division Bench, Proton Mail argued that it adheres to legitimate legal requests. The company stated it follows due process when responding to data or access-related requests.
It explained that a previous notice sent by registered post was not addressed because it lacked judicial authority. However, once a formal order was communicated through Swiss authorities, the company complied.
The Bench acknowledged this submission, noting that Proton Mail does not contest its duty to respond to lawful directives.
What lies ahead
The High Court has now requested a response from the Central government. A final ruling has yet to be issued.
For now, Proton Mail remains accessible in India while the legal proceedings continue.
