Google removes Telegram from Play Store after govt order; Apple may follow – Storyboard18

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Google has removed Telegram from its Play Store in India following government directions linked to concerns over examination-related malpractice ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21. Apple is also expected to take similar action, PTI reported citing sources familiar with the matter.
The Centre has directed both app store operators to temporarily delist Telegram until June 22 as part of measures aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the medical entrance test re-examination. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the exam for admissions to undergraduate medical courses, had earlier cancelled the May 3 test following allegations of a paper leak.
NTA Director General Abhishek Singh said the temporary restrictions are intended to ensure that the re-examination is conducted without any malpractice. He said authorities would take every possible step to prevent irregularities during the test.
Also Read: Why Telegram was restricted for NEET re-test while WhatsApp remains available?
Users attempting to download Telegram on Android devices are currently shown a message indicating that the application is unavailable on the Play Store. Existing Telegram accounts continue to function, although some users may encounter restrictions. On Apple's App Store, the app remained visible, but new account activation was reportedly not possible.
The government is also reportedly in discussions with Telegram to suspend its message-editing feature in India until June 30. Officials believe the feature has been used to alter previously posted messages and create misleading claims related to examination paper leaks.
Telegram founder and chief executive officer Pavel Durov criticised the temporary restrictions, saying the action affected more than 150 million users in India rather than addressing those responsible for exam-related misconduct. In a post on X, Durov argued that restricting access to the platform would not eliminate the circulation of leaked material, claiming such content could easily move to other online services and platforms.
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