The Indian government reasserted its stance on keeping a firm ban on TikTok with a statement noting that recent reports of renewed access are "false and misleading." Some users may have just been visiting certain sections of the platform's website, such as the “About Us” page, but otherwise, functionality remains heavily limited, and the app is unavailable through both Google Play and Apple App Store.
During the COVID-19 wave, the Indian Government banned this entertainment app that loads of creators used to use for making content. After five years, suddenly creators and users started reporting that they received access to this China-based website on both the Google Play Store and the Apple Store, though they are unable to log in, upload videos, or view content on TikTok in India.
The government source on Friday declared, “The Government of India has not issued any unblocking order for TikTok. Any such statement/news is false and misleading.” The official statement clarified that no unblocking order has been issued.
Despite the technological issues, including the access to the ‘About’ page may mislead users, core features are still inaccessible. At the time of writing, there’s no news on behalf of the Indian government regarding either the app or platform fully returning.
Why Was TikTok Banned and Why are Other Countries Doing the Same?
The ban was first implemented in June 2020. The Indian government banned around 60 Chinese apps, including TikTok, citing threats to India’s sovereignty, security, and the integrity of user data, especially following the incidents of the Galwan Valley clashes. At the time of banning, the Intelligence team stated that these apps steal sensitive data of the users and transmit it to servers outside India.
After that, multiple countries followed the same path and imposed restrictions on TikTok. Most notable mentions include Canada, European institutions, Pakistan, Nepal, and the US. Importantly, all of them cited concerns regarding data privacy, national security, and content concerns. While some countries restrict it from government devices, others ban it completely.
Also Read: Top TikTok Trends in 2025
India’s TikTok ban is a bold move that shattered this platform's dominance in one of the world's biggest international markets. This ban implemented rapid shifts in content creation and paved the way for Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and domestic rivals like Moj and Josh. Since this app was banned, Instagram Reels received the most popularity.
This change brings out a contrast regarding the entertainment ecosystem, highlighting both flexibility and vulnerability. As soon as this platform was banned, dominant apps smoothly attracted creators who used to make videos on TikTok. However, smaller creators became jobless and found their careers uncertain.
In any case, as the government continues to speak in favor of maintaining digital sovereignty and the security of the users themselves, this stance continues to be the very factor reshaping India's digital entertainment canvas, suggesting that every geopolitical decision cascades down into culture, commerce, and creativity.