Speculation over TikTok’s return to India gained momentum after some users reported being able to access the video-sharing platform’s website on Friday. However, the government has clarified that the ban on the Chinese app remains in force.
Government’s clarification
Responding to the reports, government sources told ANI that no official order has been issued to lift the ban. “Government of India has not issued any unblocking order for TikTok. Any such statement or news is false and misleading,” the clarification stated. While the website became accessible to some users, the mobile application remains unavailable on app stores, and users cannot log in or watch videos.
Background of the ban
TikTok, along with 58 other Chinese apps including WeChat and Helo, was banned in India on June 29, 2020. The decision followed the Galwan Valley clashes and was based on concerns of data security and sovereignty. Intelligence agencies had flagged these applications for collecting user data and potentially transferring information outside India. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) said the apps were engaged in activities “prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of the state and public order.”
Is TikTok website really back online?
As per users' report, TikTok website is live for some. However, reports claim that they are unable to login or watch videos on that. In fact, the app is still missing from the PlayStote. This suggests that the short-video platform is still banned in India.
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