Business
16 Jun, 2026
Google removes Telegram app from Play Store on govt order, Apple may follow suit
Business To Business, New Delhi, 16th June, 2026: According to the information provided, the Google Play Store has removed Telegram from its app store in India, and Apple App Store is expected to take similar action following a government directive aimed at preventing paper leaks during the re-examination of NEET-UG.
Sources indicate that the government directed Google and Apple to delist Telegram until June 22, citing concerns that the messaging platform could be used to facilitate the sharing of examination papers or related material during the upcoming NEET-UG re-test scheduled for June 21.
The move follows the controversy surrounding the earlier NEET-UG examination conducted on May 3, which was subsequently cancelled amid allegations of a paper leak.
If implemented fully:
- New users may be unable to download Telegram from official app stores in India.
- Existing users who already have the app installed may continue to use it unless additional restrictions are imposed.
- The measure is intended to be temporary and linked to the conduct of the re-examination.
The examination is conducted by the
National Testing Agency and serves as the primary entrance test for admission to undergraduate medical courses across India.
The reported order reflects the increasing focus of authorities on preventing the use of digital platforms for:
- Examination malpractice.
- Unauthorized dissemination of question papers.
- Coordination of cheating networks.
- Sharing leaked exam materials.
If confirmed, the temporary delisting of Telegram would be one of the most significant technology-related measures taken in connection with a national examination in India. However, any long-term action would likely depend on the outcome of investigations and the government's assessment of risks associated with the platform's use during the examination period.