India Launches Investigation into Telegram Following France

India is following France's lead by launching an investigation into Telegram, which could result in the messaging service being blocked depending on the outcomes. This was reported by the Times of India (TOI) on Monday, August 26, citing its sources.

"The Indian government has also initiated an inquiry into the platform, with a possible ban hinging on the results. According to the report, the government is investigating Telegram's alleged misuse for criminal purposes, such as extortion and gambling," the publication stated, referencing an anonymous official.

It is noted that the investigation began just one day after Pavel Durov's arrest in France. Meanwhile, the Telegram team claims that the messaging app complies with Indian laws. The company has appointed compliance officers and publishes monthly compliance reports.

However, the Indian government has stated that it is challenging to regulate Telegram in India due to the absence of a physical presence.

In October 2023, India's Ministry of Information Technology sent notices to Telegram and other social media leaders, ordering them to remove materials related to sexual violence against children from their platforms.