Government Temporarily Bans Telegram Ahead of NEET Re-Test; Platform Challenges Move in Court

The Central Government has imposed a temporary ban on Telegram ahead of the NEET re-examination, citing concerns over question paper leaks and the spread of misinformation. Authorities stated that the restrictions will remain in force until June 22, with the objective of preventing fraudulent networks from exploiting the platform during the examination process. The National Testing Agency (NTA) also alleged that Telegram’s message-editing feature had been misused to create misleading evidence of paper leaks by inserting questions into previously sent messages while retaining original timestamps.

Telegram founder Pavel Durov strongly opposed the decision, arguing that banning the platform would not solve the root cause of paper leaks. He stated that authorities should focus on identifying and punishing those responsible rather than restricting access to a messaging platform used by millions of people. Meanwhile, Telegram has challenged the government’s decision in the Delhi High Court, seeking relief from the temporary ban. The court has taken up the matter for urgent hearing, making it a closely watched legal and policy issue.