Nayara Energy moved Delhi HC against Microsoft over suspension of services

Nayara Energy has moved the Delhi High Court against Microsoft following the abrupt and unilateral suspension of critical services by the American multinational technology company.

In a press statement, Nayara Energy – an Indo-Russian oil refining and marketing company – said Microsoft is currently restricting access to its “own data, proprietary tools, and products—despite these being acquired under fully paid-up licenses”.

Nayara Energy said Microsoft’s unilateral decision is based solely on interpretation of recent European Union (EU) sanctions against Russia.

“While the sanctions originate exclusively from the EU, Microsoft—a U.S.-headquartered corporation—has chosen to withdraw services from Nayara Energy without any legal requirement to do so under U.S. or Indian law,” the press release reads.

In its plea before the high court, Nayara Energy has has sought an interim order for “resumption of services to safeguard its rights and ensure continued access to essential digital infrastructure”.

Nayara Energy said it is a vital contributor to India’s energy security, accounting for approximately 8% of the country’s total refining capacity, approx 7% of its retail petrol pump network.