Telegram access in India is restricted until June 22, 2026 . This measure affects the platform nationwide ahead of the Re-NEET UG Exam 2026. The National Testing Agency (NTA) implemented the ban to prevent fraud and misinformation. The restriction covers the re-examination date, June 21, 2026 .
Telegram Restrictions Detailed
The government issued directions under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. Access to Telegram is blocked for a limited period. This ends on June 22, 2026 , the day after the NEET re-exam. The NTA recommended these actions to the Centre. The goal is to ensure a fair and secure examination process.
Additionally, Telegram must disable its message-editing feature in India. This function allows message edits while retaining the original timestamp. This feature has been used to create fake evidence of leaked papers. The editing ban lasts until June 30, 2026 . This addresses concerns about fabricated exam materials circulating online.
Reasons for the Ban
The NTA stated that cheating rackets used Telegram to defraud candidates. These groups advertised fake exam papers. They demanded large sums of money for access. The NTA emphasizes that no such leaked papers exist. The promised materials are fraudulent.
The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) led the operational response. It acted on information from the NTA and state law enforcement. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) supported these efforts. Numerous Telegram channels promoting fraud have been taken down.
Platform-Level Action
Channel-by-channel takedowns proved insufficient. The government sought graduated platform-level compliance. The current directions are a last resort. They aim to address public order concerns with minimal restriction. The NTA regrets inconvenience to legitimate users.
Law Enforcement Actions
State police forces have also taken action. The Bihar Police issued a warning about Telegram fraud. The Ahmedabad City Cyber Crime Branch arrested individuals. They operated eight Telegram channels involved in fraud. Transactions worth approximately ₹1.5 crore were documented.
Candidate Guidance
The NTA reassures candidates about the exam's security. The NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination proceeds as scheduled on June 21, 2026 . Candidates should rely on official NTA sources. The NTA website is neet.nta.nic.in . Verify all updates through official handles.
Report any fraudulent solicitations. Contact the National Cyber-Crime Helpline at 1930 . Use the National Cyber-Crime Reporting Portal at cybercrime.gov.in . NTA helplines are also available at 011-40759000 and 011-69227700 .
