What is Bitchat app that works without Wi-Fi and mobile data? After all, why did the government protest?

The Indian government has recently taken strict action regarding a new app. Its name is Bitchat. This app provides the facility to send messages with the help of Bluetooth. That means people can talk to each other even when the internet is shut down. Former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey has a hand in creating this app.

But the government has ordered the removal of its code on GitHub. Let us understand what Bitchat is and why the government took action against it.

What is Bitchat?

Bitchat is a Bluetooth mesh network app. This means it works without internet or mobile data. Nearby phones connect to each other and pass messages. Like a chain is formed – the message from one phone keeps reaching the other phone.

Special points:

• Works even when the internet is turned off.
• Messages are encrypted (secure).
• Can connect people in a large area.
• Jack Dorsey created it for free speech and use during Internet shutdowns.

Why did the government tighten the screws?

The government says that Bitchat can be misused. Especially:

1. To organize protests during internet shutdowns.
2. To carry out unauthorized activities such as riots or illegal assemblies.
3. To avoid detention by security agencies.

In July 2026, big demonstrations took place in Delhi against the exam paper leak. At that time, people used Bitchat to stay in touch with each other despite the internet being shut down. The government considered it a threat to ‘national security’ and ordered GitHub to remove its code.

Government’s argument

Bitchat can bypass lawful interception. Also, it can help criminals and anti-social elements to organize. The government believes that control over communication is necessary even during internet shutdown.

the other side

Many people and organizations (like Internet Freedom Foundation) say that this is an attack on freedom of expression. They argue that tools like Bitchat prevent the voices of common people from being suppressed during internet shutdowns. The government should take action only by following the law.

Bitchat is a new and interesting tool that makes communication possible even when the internet is down. But the government considers it a security threat. This case is again bringing the debate of privacy versus security into discussion.