India temporarily bans Telegram over NEET medical exam paper leak
Primary region Asia
Tags Surveillance · Justice
Regions Asia
India temporarily banned the messaging platform Telegram following allegations of widespread fraud in the NEET medical entrance exam. The exam was earlier scrapped after a paper leak was discovered, sparking massive student protests across the country. The government said Telegram was being used to share leaked exam materials and coordinate cheating. The ban affects millions of Indian Telegram users and raises questions about digital rights and government censorship.
Strategic interpretation
The ban reflects the Indian government's willingness to restrict digital platforms in response to domestic crises, setting a precedent for future internet regulation. The NEET scandal has become a major political issue, with opposition parties criticizing the government's handling of exam security. The move may accelerate India's broader push for greater control over tech platforms, aligning with similar efforts by other governments worldwide.