Telegram’s legal troubles: Could it be banned in India?

In the digital age, messaging apps like Telegram have revolutionised communication, offering users privacy and encryption that traditional platforms often lack. However, this very strength has also made these apps a haven for illegal activities, raising concerns among governments worldwide. Recently, Telegram has come under intense scrutiny following the arrest of its founder and CEO in Paris on August 24. The arrest marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over the responsibility of tech companies to prevent the misuse of their platforms.

The incident has sparked renewed attention in India, where Telegram is already under investigation for its alleged role in facilitating criminal activities such as extortion and gambling. With over 5 million registered users in India, the platform’s impact is substantial, and the current investigation could have far-reaching consequences for both Telegram and its users. As the Indian government intensifies its probe, questions about the future of the app in the country have emerged, including the possibility of a ban.

This article delves into the complexities surrounding Telegram’s legal challenges, the nature of the ongoing investigations in India, and the broader implications for digital communication platforms operating in the country.

Indian government investigates Telegram's role in criminal activities

In India, Telegram is under intense scrutiny as the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) investigate the platform’s role in illegal activities such as extortion and gambling. According to a report by Money Control, a government official has confirmed that these agencies are closely examining peer-to-peer communications on Telegram, which currently has over 5 million registered users in the country. The investigation has intensified as reports of criminal activities on the platform have increased.

Despite the gravity of the situation, whether the app will be banned in India remains uncertain. The official stated that a decision would only be made once the investigation is complete, leaving the platform's fate in limbo.

Telegram's troubled history with Indian authorities

This is not the first time Telegram has found itself on the Indian government’s radar. Previously, the platform was linked to the UGC-NEET exam paper leak, where the paper was reportedly sold on Telegram. Such incidents have repeatedly raised concerns about the app’s role in facilitating illegal activities, further complicating its standing in the country.

Challenges in regulating Telegram

While Telegram complies with India’s Information Technology (IT) Rules, its lack of a local presence complicates regulatory efforts. The ongoing investigation by I4C and MeitY is primarily focused on criminal misuse of the app, rather than its compliance with IT regulations. However, the absence of a local office makes it difficult for Indian authorities to enforce regulations effectively, raising concerns about the platform’s accountability.

The investigation into Telegram’s role in criminal activities, coupled with the recent arrest of its CEO, has placed the platform under severe pressure. As Indian authorities dig deeper into the misuse of the app, the question of whether Telegram will continue to operate in India remains unanswered. The outcome of this investigation will likely determine not only the platform’s future in India but also how similar platforms might be regulated in the years to come.