Brazilian Supreme Court Initiates Inquiry Against Elon Musk As He Didn't Comply With Instruction To Block X Accounts

Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes has initiated an inquiry against Elon Musk, following Musk's challenge against Moraes' decision instructing X, to block certain accounts.

The specifics of the accounts subject to the blocking order have not been disclosed by Musk, X, or Brazilian authorities.

Musk argued that the restrictions were unconstitutional and announced that X would lift them.

In response, Moraes emphasised in his ruling that X must comply with all court orders, or face fines of 100,000 reais ($19,740/Rs 16,43,297) per day, as per a report by The Hindu.

Musk's actions have potential consequences for X in Brazil, including revenue loss and the possibility of office shutdown. Despite these challenges, Musk has vowed to legally contest the order blocking X accounts.

The confrontation between Musk and Brazilian authorities has intensified, with Musk asserting himself as a proponent of free speech and calling for Moraes' resignation. Moraes' inquiry is part of a broader investigation into "digital militias" accused of spreading fake news and hate speech during former president Jair Bolsonaro's tenure.

Furthermore, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's government is backing Moraes, with the Solicitor General advocating for regulation of social media networks to prevent foreign platforms from violating Brazilian laws.