The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has instructed GitHub to disable access to repositories hosting BitChat, an offline messaging application that operates through Bluetooth mesh technology. The move comes amid an ongoing investigation into the possible use of such apps during recent protests in Delhi.
I4C Orders GitHub to Remove BitChat Code Repositories
The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), has issued a takedown notice to GitHub, directing the platform to block three repositories associated with BitChat.
BitChat is an open-source messaging platform that enables users to exchange messages without relying on mobile networks, Wi-Fi, or internet connectivity. Instead, it uses Bluetooth mesh networking to facilitate direct communication between nearby devices.
The order was issued under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, along with Rule 3(1)(d) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021. GitHub was instructed to restrict access to the identified repositories within three hours of receiving the notice.
Why Authorities Are Concerned About BitChat
According to the government’s communication, BitChat’s decentralized design presents significant challenges for law enforcement and cyber investigators.
Unlike conventional messaging services, the platform does not require users to register with a phone number or create an account. Messages are transmitted directly between nearby devices without passing through centralized servers, making it difficult for authorities to monitor communications or retrieve user information during investigations.
Key Security Concerns Highlighted by I4C
Authorities outlined several risks associated with offline mesh-based communication platforms:
- Difficult to Trace Users: Since messages are exchanged directly between devices rather than through a central server, identifying users or tracing communication becomes significantly more difficult.
- Potential to Circumvent Internet Restrictions: Officials believe such applications could be used to communicate during internet shutdowns or network restrictions imposed during riots, public disturbances, terrorism-related incidents, organized crime investigations, or unlawful gatherings.
- No Central Logs or Metadata: Without centralized servers, subscriber records, message logs, or metadata are unavailable, limiting the ability of investigating agencies to collect digital evidence.
Linked to Ongoing Delhi Police Investigation
The directive comes as Delhi Police continue investigating whether Bluetooth-based offline messaging applications were used during the recent Cockroach Janta Party-led “Sansad Chalo” march in the national capital.
The demonstrations took place while temporary mobile internet restrictions were imposed in certain parts of Delhi.
Although investigators are examining the role of offline communication tools during the protests, authorities have not officially confirmed whether BitChat itself was used by participants.
How Bluetooth Mesh Messaging Works
Bluetooth mesh networks function differently from traditional messaging platforms such as WhatsApp or Telegram.
Instead of sending messages through mobile networks or cloud-based servers, participating smartphones communicate directly with one another using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Wi-Fi Direct technology.
Key Features of Bluetooth Mesh Networks
- Device-to-Device Communication: Every participating smartphone acts as both a sender and a relay, forwarding encrypted messages to nearby devices.
- Extended Communication Range: Although a single Bluetooth connection typically works within 10 to 100 metres, messages can travel much farther by hopping across multiple connected devices.
- No Internet or Cellular Network Required: Devices automatically discover nearby users and establish communication without connecting to external servers or requiring internet access.
Government Focuses on Security and Investigative Challenges
The government’s decision to seek the removal of BitChat repositories reflects growing concerns over technologies that enable anonymous, decentralized communication. While such applications offer privacy and offline connectivity, authorities argue that they also create significant obstacles for criminal investigations and public safety operations, particularly during periods of civil unrest or emergency situations.