New Delhi: Messaging platform Telegram has started returning for users in India after a week-long temporary restriction linked to the NEET UG re-examination process.
The app is now available on the Google Play Store for Android users. However, it is yet to fully return on Apple’s App Store. Officials expect the platform to become accessible across all devices soon.
Why Was Telegram Restricted?
The Centre imposed the temporary restriction following recommendations from the National Testing Agency (NTA) ahead of the NEET UG re-examination.
Authorities feared that fake channels on Telegram could spread misinformation, sell leaked question papers, and facilitate examination-related fraud.
The restriction remained in place from June 16 to June 22.
Editing Feature to Remain Blocked
Although Telegram has resumed services, its message editing feature will remain restricted until June 30. Officials said the move aims to prevent the creation of fake evidence after examinations. Users can edit old messages on Telegram, which could allow fraudsters to alter timestamps and falsely claim that question papers had leaked before the exam.
Authorities believe the temporary restriction will help prevent the spread of misleading content and fabricated proof related to the examination.
Telegram Criticised the Ban
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov strongly criticised the government’s decision and challenged it in the Delhi High Court. The company argued that the restriction affected nearly 150 million users in India and caused inconvenience to millions who had no connection to examination-related fraud. Telegram also claimed that fraudsters could simply move to other platforms, making a blanket restriction ineffective.
Delhi High Court Backs Government
The Delhi High Court dismissed Telegram’s petition and upheld the government’s decision. The court observed that the restriction was an emergency measure aimed at preventing question paper leaks and online scams.
According to the government, the order followed the legal procedures laid down under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. With the temporary restriction now lifted, Telegram services are gradually returning across India. However, the platform’s editing feature will remain unavailable until June 30 as authorities continue efforts to safeguard the integrity of national examinations.