Telegram to be Banned in India: The popular messaging app Telegram is under the microscope in India, with mounting concerns that could potentially lead to a ban. According to reports from Moneycontrol, the Indian government has initiated an investigation into Telegram’s alleged role in criminal activities, including extortion and gambling. The probe, conducted by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), aims to uncover whether Telegram has facilitated illegal activities and determine the next steps, which might include banning the app
Why is Telegram to be Banned in India Under Investigation?
Telegram has long been a favored platform for private and encrypted messaging, attracting millions of users worldwide. However, its strong encryption and privacy features have also made it an attractive option for individuals engaging in illegal activities. The Indian government’s investigation focuses on how the platform has allegedly been used to facilitate crimes like extortion and gambling. A government official was quoted saying that a ban on Telegram could be in the cards, depending on the findings of the investigation.
This scrutiny comes on the heels of broader concerns about the app’s misuse in various parts of the world. Just a day before the news of the Indian probe, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was arrested in France. The arrest was part of a preliminary investigation by France’s Office for the Prevention of Violence Against Minors (OFMIN) into several serious allegations, including fraud, drug trafficking, cyberbullying, organized crime, and the promotion of terrorism. French authorities have voiced concerns over Telegram’s moderation policies and its alleged failure to prevent criminal activities on its platform.
The UGC-NEET Paper Leak Controversy
Telegram has been in the spotlight in India before, particularly during the UGC-NEET exam paper leak scandal. The medical entrance exam paper was reportedly leaked on Telegram and sold for amounts ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. This incident not only exposed Telegram’s vulnerabilities but also intensified the government’s scrutiny of the platform.
Telegram’s Response and Compliance Efforts
In response to these challenges, Telegram has emphasized its commitment to complying with Indian laws. The company has appointed a nodal officer and a chief compliance officer to liaise with Indian authorities and has been publishing monthly compliance reports. Despite these efforts, the Indian government has expressed frustration over Telegram’s lack of a physical presence in the country, making it difficult to hold the platform accountable.
In October 2023, the IT Ministry issued notices to Telegram to be Banned in India and several other social media platforms, demanding the removal of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from their platforms. This was part of a broader crackdown on online platforms to ensure they adhere to Indian laws and regulations.
What’s Next for Telegram in India?
The future of Telegram in India now hinges on the outcome of the government’s investigation. If the probe uncovers substantial evidence of criminal activity facilitated through the platform, a ban could be on the horizon. However, a decision of this magnitude will likely consider the app’s widespread use for legitimate purposes and the potential impact on millions of users.
As the investigation progresses, it remains to be seen whether Telegram will be able to address the concerns raised by Indian authorities or if the app will face a ban in one of its largest markets. For now, all eyes are on the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology as they work to determine the best course of action.
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Conclusion
Telegram to be Banned in India is precarious, with serious allegations and an ongoing government probe that could lead to a ban. The platform’s role in criminal activities like extortion, gambling, and the UGC-NEET paper leak has drawn significant attention from Indian authorities. While Telegram has made efforts to comply with Indian laws, the lack of a physical presence in the country continues to be a point of contention. The final decision will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation, and the future of Telegram to be Banned in India
