Telegram: India restricts access to messaging service

India has temporarily restricted access to the Telegram messaging app, a popular communication channel and a hub for alleged exam document leaks. The government has instructed Apple and Google to remove the app from their stores until June 22, aiming to protect students applying for medical courses from fraud.

The Ministry of Education stated that Telegram is being used by individuals to sell fake examination papers for crucial national entrance exams. This measure is presented as a protective step for aspiring students. The Indian government emphasized that the access restriction is for a defined, limited period and expressed regret for any inconvenience caused.

According to Reuters, the government described the app ban as a "last resort" after other attempts to remove fraudulent content from the internet proved unsuccessful. However, activists have voiced concerns, suggesting the government might be misusing a provision in an IT law to curb freedom of expression.

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We regret the inconvenience caused by the blocking of the app.

The current controversy centers on the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), a medical school entrance exam. A re-examination was scheduled for June 21 after exam papers were found to have been leaked prior to the original May test, which had over two million participants. The National Testing Agency is collecting information on potential fraud, including websites, social media accounts, and messaging channels claiming to offer exam papers or solutions.

"India Today" also reported that Telegram's edit function, which allows users to alter content after sending, plays a role in some fraudulent schemes. This has led to a specific directive for Telegram operators regarding the edit feature.

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This is a last resort after other attempts to remove fraudulent content from the internet failed.