Is TikTok Really Coming Back to India?

In recent weeks, social media has been buzzing with claims that TikTok’s website is accessible again in India after nearly five years. Many users are excited, believing the ban has been lifted and the popular short video app is set to return. But is TikTok really making a comeback, or are these just rumors? Let’s break down the facts.

The Rumor: TikTok Website Accessibility

• Several users reported that TikTok’s homepage opened in India, igniting speculation of the app’s unbanning.
• Access reportedly was limited to the homepage; users could not log in, watch, or upload videos.
• TikTok’s mobile app still remains unavailable on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

The Official Statement: Still Banned

“The Government of India has not issued any unblocking order for TikTok. Any such statement or news is false and misleading.“
Officials and government sources have categorically stated that TikTok remains banned in India. The partial website access was likely a technical error or misconfiguration, not a sign of official unblocking.

• The ban applies to both the TikTok website and app, and full functionality is still disabled.
• The only partial access reported does not mean that the government has reversed its decision or approved TikTok’s return.

Why Was TikTok Banned?

• On June 29, 2020, the Indian government banned TikTok and 58 other Chinese apps, citing national security and data privacy concerns.
• The move followed violent clashes at the Galwan Valley between Indian and Chinese troops.
• Authorities believed the apps threatened the sovereignty and integrity of India, and were potentially transmitting user data outside the country without authorization
  

Why the Speculation Now?

• Rumors intensified as India and China’s diplomatic relations seemed to be warming up, with resumed border trade and planned bilateral meetings.
• Despite these developments, no new order on TikTok has actually been issued. Government authorities remain firm on upholding the ban.

If you see reports about TikTok’s return or find limited website access, remember: TikTok is still officially banned in India. The government has not lifted the restriction, and any such news is currently false and misleading. Until a direct and official announcement is made, trust only authentic news sources and government communication.

Stay tuned for trustworthy updates – don’t fall for rumors and always verify the news!