Telegram's Ban Continues: What You Need to Know About the Messaging App's Status

Telegram has resumed operations for some users, but the app remains banned from Google and Apple stores until June 22. The ban was implemented due to the app's failure to prevent the spread of fake NEET exam papers and other fraudulent activities. Telegram's CEO, Pavel Durov, has criticized the ban, suggesting it may have been influenced by competitors. Learn more about the implications of this ongoing situation and what it means for users.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 10:24 IST

Telegram's Operational Status Amid Ongoing Ban

New Delhi: The popular messaging platform Telegram resumed service for certain users on Tuesday morning, yet it remains unavailable on both Google and Apple app stores.

A government-imposed ban on Telegram is set to last until June 22, with no indications of any changes or extensions to this timeline.

Attempts to reach Google and Apple via email for clarification did not yield immediate responses.

The ban was enacted due to Telegram's inability to curb the spread of counterfeit NEET exam papers, along with the distribution of misleading information and other fraudulent activities that disrupted the examination process.

Prior to the ban, officials from the government had discussions with Telegram representatives on June 3 to address these issues.

Following these discussions, the Centre opted to block the app and its related web links, including the web version, until June 22.

Additionally, Telegram has been instructed to disable its message editing feature until June 30.

The NEET re-examination took place on June 21, and there have been no reports of fraudulent activities since.

Pavel Durov, the Founder and CEO of Telegram, criticized India's IT ministry for the week-long ban, attributing it to the actions of some users who shared leaked exam questions. He suggested that Reliance, which has a stake in Meta, may have influenced the decision alongside its competitor WhatsApp to impose the ban on Telegram in India.