Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai. Telegram, the messaging app that has become a household name in India after WhatsApp, is currently under intense scrutiny. With over 950 million users globally, it has grown exponentially from 550 million users in 2022. However, its rapid rise has been shadowed by a series of controversies that have led to discussions about the possibility of a ban in India. The app, known for its privacy-focused features, is now facing serious allegations that could threaten its future in the country. The platform’s reputation has been further tarnished by the recent detention of its CEO, Pavel Durov, in France on August 24, 2024. Durov is under investigation for several charges, including illegal transactions, child pornography, fraud, and failure to cooperate with authorities.
Rising Popularity and Growing Concerns
Telegram’s appeal lies in its commitment to privacy and security, offering encrypted messaging, large group chats, and file-sharing capabilities. It has become particularly popular in India, where users appreciate these features in an era of increasing digital surveillance. However, this very privacy has also made Telegram a breeding ground for illegal activities, according to recent reports. Concerns about Telegram’s misuse have been mounting in India. The app has been linked to various criminal activities, including exam paper leaks, stock market manipulation, and even the distribution of child pornography. Cyber experts and law enforcement officials have likened Telegram to the dark web, given its role in facilitating these activities.
Criminal Activities and Investigations
Several high-profile cases have highlighted the extent of illegal activities being conducted via Telegram in India. On July 24, 2023, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) exposed a case of stock price manipulation involving a Telegram group admin who allegedly took a commission of ₹20 lakh for influencing the share prices of a steel sheet manufacturing company. Another incident involved two men from Bhopal who used Telegram to impersonate police officers and extort Rs 38 lakh from a local doctor. Educational institutions have also been affected. The UGC-NET exam on June 19, 2023, with around 9 lakh applicants, was canceled after the question paper was leaked on Telegram. Similarly, the NEET-UG exam on May 3, 2023, was marred by controversy when copies of the exam questions were allegedly distributed via Telegram before the exam, leading to widespread outrage and a federal investigation.
The Future of Telegram in India
As of August 27, 2024, the Indian government has not taken any definitive action against Telegram. However, the app’s involvement in numerous illegal activities has led to growing calls for stricter regulations. Government officials are reportedly monitoring Telegram closely, with some suggesting that the app should be subject to the same content regulations as other social media platforms. While a ban has not been imposed, the future of Telegram in India remains uncertain. The app's popularity is undeniable, but its association with illegal activities could lead to significant changes in how it operates in the country. Whether through increased regulation or more stringent content monitoring, Telegram may need to adapt to continue its operations in India without further controversy.
