Telegram Ban in India Also Affects the UAE

India imposed a ban on the messaging app Telegram on June 18, 2026, which is set to last until June 22, 2026. The move was made after the app was used to disseminate leaked exam materials. Indian authorities deemed the measure necessary to protect the integrity of the education system.

CEO Pavel Durov has accused the telecommunications company Reliance of engaging in BGP hijacking. This technique resulted in the disruption of Telegram's traffic in India and beyond, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Durov stated that the disruption has affected not only local users but also international users. The impact of the ban is significantly felt in the UAE, where many users rely on Telegram to communicate with friends and family. The disruption has led to an increase in requests for alternatives, as many users attempt to circumvent the blockade.

Durov has published guidelines on how users can utilize MTProto proxies to restore access to Telegram. The Indian government has defended its decision to block Telegram, emphasizing that the dissemination of sensitive information via the platform cannot be tolerated. Authorities have announced plans to take further measures to monitor the use of Telegram in connection with illegal activities. This could lead to increased scrutiny of other messaging services. Reactions to the ban are mixed.

While some users support the decision to maintain the integrity of exams, others criticize the measure as excessive and a restriction on freedom of expression. Human rights organizations have already expressed concerns that such measures could jeopardize communication freedom in India and beyond. The technical infrastructure of Telegram has proven vulnerable to such attacks. Durov noted that the app has previously been targeted by DDoS attacks. The current situation may prompt Telegram to revise its security protocols to better fend off future attacks.

The Indian government has announced that it will continue to monitor the situation until the end of the ban on June 22, 2026. However, experts warn that the blockade of Telegram may not yield the desired results and could instead encourage users to switch to less secure platforms. The discussion surrounding the regulation of messaging services is expected to intensify in the coming weeks. The use of MTProto proxies could serve as a temporary solution for many users who wish to continue accessing Telegram.

Durov emphasized that the use of such proxies is safe and protects user privacy. However, the dissemination of this information could also lead to further discussions about security and privacy in digital communication. The situation remains tense, and Indian authorities have already announced their readiness to take further measures to prevent the spread of illegal content. The debate over the balance between security and freedom in the digital world will continue to be in focus. According to Durov, over 10 million users worldwide have already accessed the guidelines to circumvent the ban.