Telegram, one of the most popular messaging apps in India, is now at the center of a major investigation by the Indian government. The authorities are looking into claims that criminals are using the app for illegal activities like extortion and gambling. This investigation comes at a sensitive time, as Telegram’s founder and CEO, Pavel Durov, was just arrested in France. He’s accused of not doing enough to stop criminals from using the app for shady purposes.
The Indian government’s investigation is being run by two key agencies – the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. They are trying to figure out if Telegram has become a hotspot for criminal activities in the country. According to sources, if the investigation finds serious issues, Telegram could even face a ban in India.
India is one of the largest markets for Telegram, with over five million people using the app. The investigation is particularly focused on how criminals are using Telegram’s peer-to-peer communication features, which allow private and encrypted chats. These secure conversations make it difficult for authorities to track illegal activities.
Although Telegram follows India’s technology rules, one major challenge for investigators is that the company doesn’t have an office in India. This makes it harder for the government to regulate the app or take action quickly if something goes wrong.
Meanwhile, Pavel Durov’s arrest in France has added fuel to the fire. Durov, a Russian tech entrepreneur who also holds citizenship in France, the UAE, and St. Kitts and Nevis, was taken into custody when he landed at Paris-Le Bourget Airport. French authorities claim Durov hasn’t done enough to stop criminals from using Telegram, and they argue that the app’s encryption tools make it a safe space for illegal activity.
Telegram, however, has defended itself, stating that it complies with EU laws and content moderation rules. In a statement, the company called it “absurd” to blame Durov for what criminals do on the platform. According to Telegram, the app shouldn’t be held responsible for how some people misuse it.
Many Russian officials and public figures have spoken out against Durov’s arrest, saying it might be politically motivated. Some believe that French authorities want to shut down Telegram because it promotes free speech and is censorship-free. Others suggest Durov’s role has become even more important in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Telegram is reportedly being used as an alternative communication tool in military operations, especially since it avoids traditional monitoring and censorship.
As the story unfolds, high-profile figures in the West, like journalist Tucker Carlson and entrepreneur Elon Musk, have also stepped in to defend Durov. Meanwhile, speculation continues about the future of Telegram in India, as the investigation could have major consequences for the app and its users. If the Indian authorities decide to ban Telegram, it would create a significant ripple effect, not just in India but possibly around the world.
