In Brief
The Supreme Court addressed whether search engine companies (Microsoft, Google, Yahoo) must comply with Section 22 of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act, which prohibits advertisements regarding sex determination. The Court held that while search engines are bound by the statute, the originator of offensive content bears primary responsibility. Upon notification from the Union of India's Nodal Officer, intermediaries must block violative content. The Court clarified that such restrictions do not curtail freedom of expression or information access, as they apply only to illegal advertisements, not general searches like 'Medical Tourism.' The respondent companies conceded to cooperate and appoint in-house experts for compliance.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.