Exclusive/ Telegram Not in Immediate Danger of Ban in India, Sources to Republic | Exclusive

New Delhi: Sources within the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) have confirmed to the Republic that Telegram, the popular messaging platform, is compliant with India’s Information Technology (IT) rules. This information comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the platform following allegations that it was used in connection with the recent NEET-UG paper leak. Telegram is also facing scrutiny in other countries. Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was arrested in France on Saturday over allegations that his messaging app facilitated organized crime. 

In a conversation with Republic, MHA sources clarified that if Telegram had not been compliant with the IT rules, it would not be allowed to operate in the country. "If Telegram would not have been compliant, then it would not be allowed. So yes, the platform is compliant with the IT rules," the sources confirmed. 

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The issue of compliance extends beyond Telegram. The MHA sources pointed out that any platform without a presence in India poses significant challenges in terms of control and regulation. However, they emphasized that the decision to ban a platform like Telegram, similar to the action taken against TikTok, depends entirely on the findings of ongoing investigations. "Whether it can be banned or not can only be decided based on what comes out of the investigation," the sources stated.

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The current investigation is particularly focused on the potential misuse of Telegram in the NEET-UG paper leak scandal. Sources within the Ministry of Education have revealed that following a statement made by the Education Minister, a formal complaint was lodged with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY). This complaint highlighted the possible connection between the NEET-UG paper leak and the use of the dark web. "We believe it was also forwarded to the MHA, and agencies are looking into it," informed sources in the Ministry of Education said.

"Telegram was one platform on which papers were distributed, and so obviously it would be looked into. The exact status of the investigation, however, is not known," they added.

The ongoing investigation into the NEET-UG paper leak and the role of platforms like Telegram is crucial in determining whether further action will be taken.  As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what further developments will unfold and whether any additional measures will be taken against platforms like Telegram. For now, the focus remains on ensuring that all digital platforms operating in India comply with the necessary regulations to maintain a safe and secure digital environment.