Telegram Founder Pavel Durov's Arrest Sparks Global Debate on Free Speech

Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, was arrested in Paris, sparking controversy over accountability for platform misuse. Moscow urged Paris to uphold Durov’s rights, while Elon Musk criticized the arrest. Telegram defended Durov, stating the platform complies with EU laws. Investigators allege the platform facilitates criminal activity due to inadequate moderation.

The arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov in Paris has ignited a global debate over free speech and accountability for platform misuse. Moscow has urged French authorities to ensure Durov's rights are respected, while Elon Musk has criticized the arrest as an attack on free speech in Europe. Telegram, in a statement, defended Durov, asserting that the company complies with European Union laws and maintains industry-standard moderation practices.

Durov, a 39-year-old billionaire with dual French and UAE citizenship, was detained following allegations of permitting various crimes due to insufficient moderation and lack of police cooperation. Telegram emphasized that blaming a platform owner for misuse is absurd, highlighting that Durov frequently travels in Europe and has nothing to hide. The investigation is spearheaded by a cybersecurity gendarmerie unit and France's national anti-fraud police unit, focusing on organized crime.

Telegram, which Durov founded after refusing Russian demands to shut down opposition communities on VK, has grown to nearly a billion users. The app is particularly influential in Russia and the former Soviet Union republics. Known for his libertarian views and admiration for Steve Jobs, Durov remains committed to keeping the app neutral and not engaged in geopolitics. The case has sparked international attention, with Russian lawmaker Maria Butina labeling Durov as a political prisoner.

(With inputs from agencies.)