Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has been arrested for failing to curb the platform’s criminal activities. The Indian government has launched an exclusive investigation on Telegram for being involved in illegal activities like gambling and drug trafficking. This case is investigated by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology (MeitY). All these affairs put speculation about the ‘Telegram ban in India’ and calling it a platform for criminals. It may be complicated to answer everything without knowing about the accusations. So let’s know them first.
Telegram Ban in India: Potential Implications for Users
The result of this investigation could impact Telegram’s activity in India. Depending on the situation and findings Indian government may ban the app if it is proven to be a significant tool in illegal activities. Despite the app’s compliance with IT rules of India (including appointment of key officers and publication of monthly compliance reports), the probe will assess whether these measures are adequate or not. A permanent ban may result in the loss of user-sensitive information.
Arrest of Telegram CEO
The founder and CEO of Telegram, Pavel Durov was arrested in Paris on August 24. It is a key heading that has added to the controversy of Telegram, it has also sparked international criticism. Billionaire Elon Musk and Edward Snowden have shown concerns over the handling of the present situation.
Durov was arrested at the airport of Le Bourget during his arrival from Baku, Azerbaijan. France’s Office for Minors (OFMIN) has issued a warrant to detain Durov on charges related to fraud, cyberbullying, drug trafficking and organized crimes with promotion of terrorism. All these charges are linked to allegations concerning the platform’s content moderation.
Global Reach Vs. Controversies of Telegram
Telegram has successfully flourished its impact all over the globe specifically in Ukraine, Russia, and other Soviet states. It is a major social media platform with the aim of reaching a billion users by next year but it is not out of controversy. This platform has been criticized for its lack of moderation and other illicit activities.
Durov typically resides outside of Europe and had limited visits to France, his recent arrest at the airport in Paris makes it a noteworthy event. The French media have reported the investigation specifically focused on the inability of Durov to prevent criminal activities and drug trafficking.
Role of Telegram in Global Communication
When Russia was invading Ukraine in 2022, Telegram was a key platform for sharing information and misleading the population. It is used by the Government of Russia and the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy also by the Kremlin.
Investigations also revealed that the future of Telegram in India is uncertain. It is believed to be one of the major platforms for disseminating news regarding ongoing conflict. Telegram ban in India may raise a concern for businessman groups although it is not a major Indian platform.
