Goa, June 16 -- India's temporary ban on Telegram ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination has triggered a heated debate over exam security, misinformation and digital freedoms. The Centre restricted access to the messaging platform until June 22 following recommendations from the National Testing Agency (NTA), which cited concerns over organised cheating networks and the circulation of fake paper leak claims.

Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov criticised the move, arguing that it unfairly affects more than 150 million Indian users while doing little to stop those responsible for spreading leaked material. According to Durov, users involved in malpractice simply shift to other platforms when restrictions are imposed.

The NTA clarified...