Meta accused of shadow-banning Delhi protest content as users report drop in Instagram reach
Meta is facing criticism after several social media users and content creators alleged that Instagram was limiting the visibility of posts related to the ongoing student protests in Delhi over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak. Many claimed that photos, videos and reels from the demonstrations witnessed a sharp drop in reach without any prior warning or explanation from the platform, prompting allegations of “shadow banning.”
The controversy emerged as thousands of students, led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), continued protests in the national capital, demanding accountability over the alleged examination irregularities. Users alleged that protest-related content was either receiving significantly lower engagement or was being flagged as sensitive, making it harder for others to discover.
The Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF), a digital rights organisation, has sought clarity from Meta over its content moderation and distribution policies. In a post on X, the organisation questioned whether Instagram’s systems were unfairly restricting protest-related content and asked the company to explain the criteria used to moderate such posts. IFF also sought details on whether any government requests influenced moderation decisions and what remedies are available to users whose content experiences reduced visibility.
This 4 months pregnant woman police personnel should not have been deputed or assigned for duty to such unlawful assembly of Rowdy Elements, is our first Observation.
Save The child in her womb at any cost, please. @AmitShah
Humble request Sir@DelhiPolice @PMOIndia https://t.co/yeEO8Sg7Vb— RVN ???????? (@Chinmayadasa) July 23, 2026
Several creators reported that reels documenting the protests were appearing behind sensitive content warnings, while others claimed their posts failed to reach followers despite having no policy violations. The complaints have renewed concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding algorithmic moderation and the impact such actions can have on public discourse during politically sensitive events.
The allegations come at a time when protests over the alleged NEET paper leak have intensified, with students demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and calling for greater accountability in the examination process. As the demonstrations continue, questions around digital censorship, freedom of expression and the role of social media platforms in moderating political content have once again come under scrutiny.
Meta had not publicly responded to the allegations at the time the complaints were reported.
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