Messaging platform Telegram has challenged India’s temporary ban on its services, arguing that the government’s decision violates constitutional protections and undermines free speech rights.
The company filed its challenge before the Delhi High Court after Indian authorities imposed a nationwide restriction on Telegram until June 22 as part of efforts to curb exam-related fraud.
The temporary ban took effect on Tuesday following concerns that channels on the platform were claiming to possess examination papers ahead of a rescheduled national medical entrance examination. The test had previously been cancelled after allegations of widespread paper leaks affecting millions of candidates.
In a nearly 200-page court filing seen by Reuters, Telegram argued that blocking an entire platform because of the actions of a subset of users sets a dangerous precedent.
“Such an approach, if upheld, would enable indiscriminate suspension of digital platforms, severely undermining constitutional protections of free speech and access to information,” the company stated.
Telegram further argued that the government’s order was based on the flawed assumption that misuse by some users justifies restricting access for millions of legitimate users.
The matter came before the Delhi High Court on Wednesday, where both parties briefly presented arguments. India’s Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta, requested an adjournment until Thursday to allow the government to formally respond to Telegram’s claims, a request the court granted.
Mehta said authorities have repeatedly urged Telegram to strengthen its systems and address concerns about misuse of the platform.
The temporary ban remains in effect pending further proceedings.
