PakkaHyderabadi 
The Centre told the Delhi High Court that Telegram has become a “new dark web” while defending the platform's temporary suspension.
Delhi High Court Hears Challenge To Temporary Telegram Suspension
The Central Government has defended its decision to temporarily block Telegram in India, telling the Delhi High Court that the messaging platform has increasingly become a “new dark web” where illegal activities are difficult to track and investigate. The remarks came during court proceedings related to Telegram’s challenge against the temporary suspension imposed ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination.
According to the government, Telegram’s features, including anonymity and encrypted communications, have made it harder for authorities to identify individuals involved in criminal activities. Officials argued that the platform has been used not only for exam-related fraud but also for other unlawful operations that are difficult to monitor through conventional investigative methods.
The temporary restriction was introduced ahead of the NEET-UG re-test scheduled for June 21 after authorities alleged that cheating networks were using Telegram channels to circulate fake question papers, spread misinformation and target students with fraudulent schemes. The government has maintained that the move is aimed at protecting the integrity of the examination process rather than restricting free speech.
Why Did The Government Block Telegram?
Officials say the decision was taken after investigators found that several Telegram channels were allegedly being used to sell leaked exam papers and deceive students preparing for the NEET re-examination. Authorities claimed that fraudsters were demanding large sums of money from students while falsely promising access to examination material.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) supported the temporary restriction, arguing that it would help ensure a fair examination process and reduce the spread of misinformation before the re-test.
Telegram’s Response
Telegram has challenged the government’s decision in court and argued that the ban unfairly affects millions of ordinary users who rely on the platform for communication. The company has maintained that it has taken action against channels linked to scams and illegal content and has questioned whether blocking the entire platform is a proportionate response.
Telegram founder Pavel Durov has also criticized the restriction, saying it punishes legitimate users while those responsible for leaks can simply move to other platforms.
What Did The Court Say?
During the hearings, the Delhi High Court examined both the government’s concerns and Telegram’s objections. While questions were raised about the impact on millions of users, the court later upheld the temporary suspension, ruling that the government was justified in using emergency powers to protect the integrity of the NEET re-examination process.
Why This Matters
The case has sparked a broader debate over the balance between public safety and digital freedom. Supporters of the ban argue that strong action is necessary to combat organized exam fraud, while critics warn that blocking an entire platform could set a precedent for future internet restrictions.
