The Indian government has temporarily restricted access to Telegram ahead of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET-UG) re-examination, citing concerns over the platform’s alleged misuse for spreading misinformation and circulating leaked examination papers.
The move comes as authorities intensify efforts to safeguard the integrity of the medical entrance examination following the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 amid reports of question paper leaks in several states.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued the directive on Tuesday under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. Under the order, access to Telegram in India will remain restricted until June 22, covering the period leading up to and immediately following the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21.
The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the examination, welcomed the decision and stated that the restriction was implemented in line with its recommendations.
In addition to limiting access to the messaging platform, authorities have also blocked Telegram’s message-editing feature until June 30. According to the NTA, the feature was allegedly being used to alter or manipulate content after the examination, creating confusion and potentially fabricating evidence linked to the paper leak controversy.
Government officials expressed concerns that messaging services could be exploited by organised cheating networks to mislead students and promote fraudulent claims related to examination papers and results.
Section 69A of the Information Technology Act empowers the government to block public access to online platforms and digital services in cases involving national security, public order, sovereignty, integrity of the country and the prevention of criminal offences. Non-compliance with such directives can attract legal penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
The latest action follows a broader crackdown on online networks allegedly involved in examination-related fraud. The NTA noted that the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs, recently removed several Telegram channels, groups and automated bots accused of advertising or facilitating fraudulent examination activities.
Law enforcement agencies across multiple states have also launched investigations into individuals and groups suspected of spreading misinformation and participating in organised paper leak operations following reports of irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination process.
The controversy surrounding the examination has triggered widespread concern among students and parents, prompting authorities to implement additional measures aimed at ensuring a fair and secure re-examination. Officials have reiterated their commitment to maintaining the credibility of one of India’s most competitive entrance tests while taking strict action against those involved in malpractice.
The temporary restrictions are expected to remain in place until the completion of the re-examination process, after which authorities will review the situation before deciding on any further action.
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