India, June 27 -- Messaging platform Telegram is back in the spotlight over security concerns. Days after it was temporarily banned in India over its alleged role in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has flagged the platform as a key channel for drug-related advertising.

According to the NCB's annual report for 2025, released by Union home minister Amit Shah yesterday, Telegram has emerged as the most prominent encrypted messaging platform used to advertise illegal drugs through public channels offering product listings, pricing and delivery details.

The report noted that while encrypted messaging platforms such as Telegram, WhatsApp and Signal have become significant channels for drug distribution globally...