The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has temporarily restricted the access to the Telegram messaging platform across the India until June 22nd, 2026. This decision was taken just ahead of the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination which set to scheduled for June 21 after the recommendations from the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Why Has Telegram Been Restricted?
According to official information, the restriction has been imposed as the preventive measure to safeguard the integrity of the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination.
Authorities have expressed the concerns that Telegram channels and groups could potentially be used to circulate the examination-related content which includes the alleged question papers, answer keys and misleading information.
The temporary restriction is intended to reduce the risk of the malpractice and to maintain public confidence in the examination process.
The National Testing Agency has welcomed the decision and stated that it would help to ensure a fair and secure examination environment.
Legal Basis of the Restriction
The government has invoked the Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which empowers the Central Government to block the public access to online information in specific circumstances related to the national security, public order and other legal grounds.
Under the new notification issued by MeitY, Telegram access has been restricted in India for the limited period which will end on June 22, 2026 covering the examination day and the immediate period thereafter.
Temporary Restrictions on Message Editing
In addition to restricting the access, authorities have reportedly directed the Telegram to disable the message-editing feature for already posted messages in India until June 30, 2026.
The measure has been also introduced to address concerns that the edited messages could be used to create misleading claims or fabricated evidence regarding examination paper leaks after the examination has taken place.
Officials also believe that limiting this feature will help the investigators to verify the authenticity and timeline of the messages related to examination activities.
About Section 69A of the IT Act
Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 empowers the Central Government to direct the blocking of the public access to information hosted on online platforms under the some specific conditions.
This provision has previously been used to restrict the websites, applications and digital platforms when authorities considered such action necessary in the interest of the national security, public order or prevention of unlawful activities.
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