India blocks access to the messaging app Telegram until 22 June, according to the government and multiple outlets. The restriction follows the government’s conclusion that Telegram was used as part of cheating and fraud schemes targeting candidates taking a high-stakes medical entrance re-exam for NEET-UG. Reporting says Telegram channels were linked to claims that they offered exam questions in advance for sale, which the government describes as an effort to defraud candidates.
Authorities issued the order under Section 69A of India’s Information Technology Act, a legal provision that allows blocking online services in the “interest of sovereignty and integrity of India.” Outlets also note that the measure is tied to the timing of the examination and is set to end after the exam has taken place.
One report further states that Telegram’s appeal against the ban is unsuccessful, with the government maintaining that the temporary restriction is intended to address the alleged fraud risk around the exam.
