Supabase, a widely-used developer database platform, is currently experiencing access disruptions in India, a significant market for the service. Reports indicate that the Indian government has mandated internet service providers to block the platform's website, leading to inconsistent access for users across various networks.
This blocking order, issued on February 24 under Section 69A of India's Information Technology Act, grants the government authority to limit public access to online content. However, the specific reasons behind this decision remain undisclosed, leaving uncertainty regarding whether it stems from cybersecurity concerns, copyright issues, or other factors.
Users have reported erratic access to Supabase over the past week, with the company acknowledging the situation on social media. Initial reports of the blocking emerged from users on Reliance Industries' JioFiber network, but similar issues have since been noted across multiple internet providers. In an effort to address the situation, Supabase reached out to India's IT minister, although the message was later removed, and access issues persisted for many.
An anonymous Indian entrepreneur shared that new user registrations from India have ceased in recent days, while a technology consultant indicated that consistent access to Supabase for development and production tasks has become challenging. Although Supabase has suggested alternative methods such as changing DNS settings or utilizing VPNs to bypass local restrictions, these solutions may not be practical for most users.
At the time of reporting, access to supabase.co was confirmed to be blocked on major networks like ACT Fibernet, JioFiber, and Airtel in New Delhi. Interestingly, some users in Bengaluru reported continued access, suggesting that the implementation of these restrictions may vary.
Despite the challenges, Supabase's main website remains accessible in India, although its core developer infrastructure is not. India accounts for approximately 9% of Supabase's global traffic, underscoring the potential impact of these restrictions on the local developer ecosystem. The platform has seen an impressive growth trajectory, with visits from India rising by nearly 179% recently.
This incident raises broader concerns regarding India's website blocking practices, as pointed out by Raman Jit Singh Chima, Asia Pacific policy director at Access Now. He emphasized the unpredictable nature of such measures, which can disrupt developers' projects and workflows.
Founded in 2020 by Paul Copplestone and Ant Wilson, Supabase has emerged as a robust open-source alternative to Firebase, leveraging PostgreSQL. The startup has garnered significant interest and funding, amassing around $380 million across three funding rounds, reflecting its growing prominence in the tech landscape.
As of now, the Ministry of Electronics and IT and major telecom providers have not issued comments regarding the situation.
