Telegram Temporarily BANNED in India Over NEET Paper Leak; Pavel Durov DROPS Befitting Reply...

India has temporarily blocked Telegram nationwide ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, citing conce s over exam paper leaks, cheating networks, and misinformation. Authorities say the one-week suspension was requested to protect the integrity of one of the country’s most important entrance exams after allegations that organized groups were using Telegram channels to distribute leaked materials and exploit students. The move marks the first nationwide block of a major messaging platform in India. Telegram founder Pavel Durov has criticized the decision, arguing that millions of legitimate users are being affected while the controversy continues to spark debate over security, education, and digital freedoms.