Government Moves Against Telegram Ahead of NEET-UG Re-Exam, Affecting Access for Millions of Users Across the Country
Highlights
- Telegram services have been disrupted in India following government action.
- Google Play Store and Apple App Store have reportedly removed the app.
- Authorities aim to curb alleged paper leak-related misinformation before NEET-UG 2026 re-exam.
- VPN users may still be able to access the platform.
- Telegram CEO has criticized the temporary restrictions.
Telegram users across India have reported disruptions after the government initiated measures against the messaging platform ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. The move is aimed at preventing the spread of alleged paper leak material and misinformation related to the examination.
According to reports, Telegram has been removed from both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store in India, preventing new users from downloading the application. Several existing users have also reported difficulties accessing certain services on the platform.
Cybersecurity experts, however, note that Telegram has not been completely blocked. Users employing Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) may still be able to access the messaging service despite the restrictions.
The government has also reportedly directed Telegram to disable its message-editing feature for previously posted content in India until June 30. Officials believe that edited messages could potentially be used to manipulate timelines, create false evidence of paper leaks, or spread misleading information related to examinations.
The action comes ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21, following the cancellation of the original test conducted on May 3 amid allegations of question paper leaks. Authorities have expressed concerns that Telegram channels and groups were being used to circulate sensitive exam-related information.
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has criticized the government’s decision, arguing that temporary restrictions on the platform are unlikely to stop paper leaks and may instead push users toward alternative communication channels. He also claimed that the move could affect more than 150 million Telegram users in India.
The development has reignited debate over balancing examination security, misinformation control, digital rights, and access to online communication platforms. Government officials maintain that the restrictions are temporary and intended to protect the integrity of a major national examination.
