Gurugram police files case against WhatsApp for non-compliance

The Gurugram Police have initiated legal action against WhatsApp’s directors and nodal officers after the messaging app failed to provide requested information related to an ongoing investigation. This case, registered at Gurugram’s Cyber Crime East police station, underscores the growing tensions between law enforcement and tech companies regarding compliance with legal requests.

According to police reports, a notice was sent to WhatsApp via email on July 17, seeking information on specific mobile numbers pertinent to the investigation. WhatsApp reportedly raised objections to the request, prompting the police to issue a second detailed request on July 25. However, by August 28, WhatsApp had yet to respond, despite multiple follow-ups from the police.

The Gurugram Police assert that WhatsApp’s refusal to cooperate is hindering their investigation and may allow the accused parties to evade legal consequences. In light of this non-compliance, the police have filed charges under sections 223(A), 241, and 249(C) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) as well as relevant sections of the Information Technology Act.

A police spokesperson confirmed that the action against WhatsApp was taken only after obtaining necessary permissions from the Home Department of the Haryana Government. They emphasized the legal obligation of WhatsApp to provide the requested information.