After TikTok’s departure, Internet Freedom Foundation recommends alternatives to app bans in India

After Google and Apple blocked new users from downloing TikTok on ir phone, Internet Freedom Foundation wrote to Ministry of Electronics and Information Techlogy recommending alternative measures to dress concerns over children’s safety on internet. Copies of letter were also sent to Ministry of Women and Child Development and National Commission for Protection of Child Rights.

“re is large scale social panic of potential for online harms faced by children and ults. This is reflected is several PILs that have been filed in State High Courts (such as against Pokemon Go, TikTok and PUBG) and ministrative measures proposed are inconsistent with rights respecting framework and are t proceeding from a rational,  policy-based response,” Apar Gupta, Executive Director of Internet Freedom Foundation said in his letter.

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Internet Freedom Foundation has urged government for opting rights respecting stand against “app bans,” commencing a transparent consultation process and activating Cyber Regulations visory Committee (CRAC).

Internet Freedom Foundation said outright ban on mobile apps infringe upon right to freedom of speech and expression, as well as “(online) assembly to active policy and regulatory measures for protection children and young ults online” and action can be taken after potential harms caused by such apps are studied scientifically and rights respecting framework can be developed.

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Google and Apple removed TikTok from ir respective app stores following instructions by Ministry of Electronics and Information Techlogy to comply with Mras High Court’s ban order, after Supreme Court stayed High Court’s order. However, matter is scheduled for hearing in SC for April 22.

Although TikTok app is longer available to downlo through Google Play Store or Apple App Store, order exempts existing app users. So you can still use TikTok on your smartphone if you have app downloed and installed on your device or if you sidelo app, which is t recommended.

Previously, Internet Freedom Foundation h filed public interest litigation (PIL) before Gujarat High Court challenging PUBG ban order. Over 20 people were arrested in Gujarat for playing PUBG on ir mobile phone. However, IFF’s PIL was later rejected by Gujarat High Court.