Blogspot censored in India

After the Mumbai train blasts, some bloggers posted some anti-Islamic commentary, described by the Indian government as "extremely derogatory references to Islam and the holy prophet, which had the potential to inflame religious sensitivities in India and create serious law and order problems." The government responded by banning internet access to a number of popular blog sites, including blogspot. I can still write entries in my blog, but I'm unable to read any blogs.

Journalists and bloggers around the world are protesting the ban, claiming it "impeded the flow of information, news and opinions during a time of national crisis." India has a long history of free press, the ban comes an a surprise to many.

Personally, I find derogatory references to any religion particularly distasteful and counterproductive, but when any government impedes freedom of speech I feel a great deal of concern. The Chinese government and the lack of freedom among the Chinese and Tibetan people stand out as a prime example of why government controlled media/press squelches human rights.