India Reaffirms TikTok Ban: No Lift Despite Website Access

The Indian government has reiterated that the ban on TikTok is still in force, responding to user reports about accessing the platform’s website. Government officials refuted any claims of lifting the ban, stating that no unblocking order has been issued. Despite the website being accessible to some, users were unable to fully utilize TikTok, and the app remains unavailable for download. The ban was enacted in 2020, along with restrictions on other Chinese apps, due to security concerns. The government deemed these apps a threat to India’s sovereignty and user data privacy. While both India and China are currently working to improve their relationship, the TikTok ban remains active. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin and is expected to hold bilateral meetings with other leaders on the sidelines.