The Free Software Movement of India (FSMI) has asked the immediate withdrawal of an order issued by the District Magistrate of Indore (Madhya Pradesh) that seeks to ban social media criticism on demonetisation.

"It shows the desperation of the Central and the Madhya Pradesh governments that have failed in the elementary task of providing money to the people for conducting their day-to-day needs," FSMI has said in a statement.

"They are resorting to such draconian measures to stifle all legitimate criticism," the association said.

The District Magistrate issued an order on November 14, using the provisions of the Section 144, banning any criticism on social media such as Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp on exchange of old currency.