Telegram Returns For Some Users In India After NEET Re-examination

After the NEET controversy in India, the Centre had decided to temporarily ban the Telegram app till the re-examination. Now, a new report from PTI suggests that the messaging platform has become accessible again for users. However, the app was still unavailable for download to the Apple app store. Notably, it was found to be accessible for the Android users on Google Play Store at the time of writing.This ban was originally scheduled to remain in place until June 22 and officials have not announced any extension so far. Earlier this month, the government suspended access to Telegram after concerns emerged that NEET examination papers and misleading content were being circulated through the instant messaging platform. Officials had also raised

issues regarding the fraudulent activities that may affect the process of the examination.Before temporarily banning the app, the government officials had met the Telegram representatives on June 3 and reportedly highlighted the concerns. After the discussions, the Centre had ordered the internet service providers to block Pavel Durov’s Telegram and its web-based service until June 22, 2026.

Restrictions On Editing Messages Continue

Apart from the temporary ban, Telegram was reportedly instructed to disable its message-editing feature until June 30. Officials believe that the move may help prevent the alteration of content that could be used to spread misinformation and hide evidence related to exam-related leaks. The NEET re-examination was held on June 21, 2026.After the government temporarily restricted the app’s access to India, the app founder and CEO Durov had publicly criticised the Centre’s move to block the platform. He had stressed that banning the entire service because some users reportedly shared leaked exam papers was unfair.

Durov Criticises Government Decision

Moreover, Durov had claimed that business interests may have influenced the move. He alleged that Reliance Jio, along with the rival WhatsApp, may have played a role in lobbying against Telegram. However, Reliance Jio had denied the allegations.While some existing users can once again access the service, the app's full availability in India remains uncertain as of now.