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The global messaging platform Telegram has approached the Delhi High Court, challenging the Central government’s decision to impose a temporary ban on the service
till June 22, ahead of the Re-NEET examinations. The High Court has agreed to hear the matter on an urgent basis today, citing concerns around alleged circulation of leaked question papers and its possible impact on exam integrity. Despite the restriction, Telegram remains accessible for many users through VPN services, and the app is still available on Apple’s App Store, raising questions over the effectiveness of the temporary ban in practice.
Telegram Founder Raises Concerns on X
Telegram founder Pavel Durov, in a post on X, criticised the move, saying the restriction unfairly affects more than 150 million Indian users rather than the individuals responsible for leaking exam material. He also argued that enforcement actions have not stopped the problem, claiming that such content has simply migrated to other platforms, reducing the effectiveness of bans.
The platform separately stated that it has removed hundreds of channels in India in recent weeks that were allegedly involved in sharing leaked question papers and facilitating exam-related scams. It also said it is strengthening its “edited” label feature to prevent backdating scams and improve transparency around modified messages.
Government officials, however, have maintained that the temporary restriction was imposed to safeguard the fairness of the re-NEET examination process, amid concerns that messaging platforms were being used to circulate sensitive material ahead of the test.
The case could set an important precedent on how digital intermediary platforms are regulated during high-stakes national examinations in India, particularly in balancing enforcement needs with access to communication services.
Reactions remain divided among stakeholders and students. While some back strict measures to curb leaks, others argue that blanket restrictions risk inconveniencing genuine users without effectively tackling the root issue of malpractice.
The matter is expected to be taken up urgently by the Delhi High Court later today, with the outcome likely to influence future regulatory approaches ahead of major examinations.
