Telegram returns to Google Play Store after temporary NEET-related suspension

Telegram has begun returning to service in India after a temporary government-imposed suspension linked to concerns over exam-related fraud ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination.

The messaging platform reappeared on the Google Play Store on Tuesday, allowing Android users to download and access the app again.

The Centre had ordered a temporary nationwide block on Telegram until June 22, citing the alleged use of the platform by cheating rackets and channels claiming to provide access to NEET-UG re-examination papers.

The restriction was imposed under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act following recommendations from the National Testing Agency (NTA).

With the restriction period ending at midnight on June 22, Google restored Telegram on the Play Store. Reports indicated that the app started functioning for some users on June 23 morning, although access was not immediately restored for everyone. In some cases, users continued to report difficulties in sending messages or accessing Telegram services.

The temporary suspension was part of a broader effort by authorities to prevent the spread of fake question papers, misleading information and fraudulent activities ahead of the NEET-UG re-test conducted on June 21.

Officials had also directed Telegram to restrict certain features, including message editing, for a limited period as part of the security measures.

The NTA had repeatedly maintained that claims of a paper leak before the re-examination were false and warned students against falling prey to misinformation circulating on social media and messaging platforms.

Telegram’s temporary suspension triggered debate over the balance between examination security and digital access. Critics argued that blocking the platform affected millions of legitimate users, while the government maintained that the move was necessary to safeguard the integrity of one of the country’s largest entrance examinations.

As services are restored, users are expected to regain normal access gradually across devices and app stores.