New Delhi, India — The Delhi High Court on Friday (June 19, 2026) declined to grant relief to Telegram and upheld the Union government’s decision to impose a temporary ban on the messaging platform ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21.
Justice Tejas Karia observed that the Centre had followed due process and acted within its powers under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. The Court noted that the government’s action was a proactive and least restrictive measure aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the examination process.
“The government’s proactive measures are least restrictive,” Justice Karia said, adding that it could not be concluded that the order was disproportionate or issued without proper application of mind, as alleged by the petitioner.
Acting on a request from the National Testing Agency (NTA), the Union government ordered a week-long suspension of Telegram services in India until June 22, 2026. The NTA had expressed concerns over the alleged organised use of the platform by cheating syndicates seeking to defraud candidates appearing in the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination.
During the proceedings, the Centre defended its decision, arguing that Telegram has increasingly become a platform exploited by cybercriminals, fraud networks, extremist groups, and those involved in examination paper leaks. The government relied on an assessment by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which described Telegram as a growing hub for illicit online activities.
What is Next by Telegram
Senior Advocate Dhruv Mehta, appearing for Telegram, challenged the government’s use of emergency powers, contending that authorities had failed to justify a complete shutdown of the platform. He argued that the government could have targeted specific content or channels rather than blocking access to the entire service.
“The order says it is in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India. How does an examination like NEET affect the sovereignty and integrity of India? Where is the application of mind?” Mehta submitted before the Court.
With the High Court refusing interim relief, the temporary suspension of Telegram will remain in force until June 22 as authorities continue efforts to prevent malpractice during the high-stakes medical entrance examination.
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