Centre Dismisses Reports on Lifting Ban of TikTok, AliExpress, and Shein in India

The Indian government has firmly denied recent rumours suggesting that the ban on TikTok has been lifted. TikTok has remained banned in India since June 29, 2020, due to concerns over national sovereignty, security, and data privacy following heightened tensions with China.

While some users claimed partial access to TikTok’s website, the application continues to remain unavailable on Indian app stores.

According to reports from NDTV and Hindustan Times, government sources clarified that no such unblocking order has been issued.

The brief accessibility of the TikTok website was explained as a technical glitch and not the result of any policy shift.

Speculation Over Website Access

The sudden ability of some users to access TikTok’s homepage without the use of a VPN created widespread speculation that the platform might be returning to India.

However, users were unable to log in, stream, or upload videos, which confirmed that the app’s core functions remain disabled.

Government officials reiterated, “The government of India has not issued any unblocking order for TikTok. Any such statement or news is false and misleading.”

This clarification came at a time when diplomatic ties between India and China have shown signs of improvement, with trade activity resuming across border points and Prime Minister Narendra Modi preparing to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in China.

Background: Why TikTok Was Banned

On June 29, 2020, India banned TikTok along with 58 other Chinese applications. This decision followed violent clashes in the Galwan Valley between Indian and Chinese soldiers.

Security agencies had raised red flags, stating that these apps were compromising user privacy and possibly involved in espionage by transmitting sensitive data outside India without approval.

Before the ban, India was TikTok’s largest international market, with a user base estimated at 150 to 200 million. The platform’s sudden exit left a significant gap, which domestic apps such as Moj and Chingari attempted to fill.

Additionally, global competitors like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts quickly capitalised on the void created by TikTok’s absence.

Public Reaction to Ban Lift Rumours

Reports of limited access to TikTok’s homepage quickly spread across social media, sparking excitement and confusion among users.

Many speculated about the app’s possible return, while others highlighted that its core functions were still inactive.

Government sources clarified that this accessibility was purely a technical glitch and advised people not to fall for misinformation.

Online reactions reflected a divide—some users expressed disappointment over the clarification, while others supported the government’s continued cautious stance on safeguarding national interests.

Officials reiterated, “The Government of India has not issued any unblocking order for TikTok. Any such statement/news is false and misleading.”

Despite being able to access the homepage, users were unable to log in or stream videos. Moreover, the TikTok app remains absent from Indian app stores. The ban also extended to other platforms, including WeChat and Helo, in view of threats to sovereignty and security.

Security Concerns Behind the Ban

Most of the apps banned in June 2020 were flagged by intelligence agencies for potential risks, including unauthorized data collection and the possibility of sensitive information being transmitted abroad.

At the time, the government had explained that these applications were engaged in activities “prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of the state and public order.”

India-China Relations: Recent Developments

While TikTok remains banned, India and China have recently taken steps to improve bilateral relations. Trade has resumed at designated border points, including Lipulekh Pass, Shipki La Pass, and Nathu La Pass.

Both nations have also agreed to restore direct flight connectivity at the earliest opportunity and to finalise an updated Air Services Agreement.

Additionally, they agreed to facilitate visa processes for tourists, businesses, media personnel, and other visitors in both directions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to China from August 31 to September 1 for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Tianjin.

During the summit, he is expected to hold bilateral meetings with various global leaders attending the event.

Despite speculation triggered by temporary website access, TikTok remains banned in India, and government officials have confirmed that there is no change in policy.

Security, sovereignty, and data privacy remain at the heart of India’s decision, even as relations with China show signs of gradual improvement.