today in toptalks According to recent reports, Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, was arrested in France on August 24, 2024. This arrest is part of an inquiry into the messaging app’s lack of moderators. Following the arrest, Russian officials at the French embassy demanded consular access for Durov and the protection of his rights. However, the embassy stated that France has “avoided engagement” with Durov’s situation so far.

Media reports suggest that the absence of moderators on Telegram allowed a wide range of criminal activities to thrive. As a result, Durov was arrested as part of a preliminary police investigation. In response, Telegram’s official account on X labeled it “absurd” to hold a platform or its owner responsible for abuse occurring on the app.

Addressing the matter on X, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that Durov’s arrest was not a “political decision.” Macron reiterated that “France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication.” However, he stressed that in a state governed by the rule of law, these freedoms are protected within legal frameworks, both online and offline, to safeguard citizens and their basic rights.

What is Telegram?

Telegram is a messaging app similar to WhatsApp, Signal, and iMessage, facilitating communication between users. For many, it serves as a platform for friendly conversation. However, Telegram offers more social networking features than its competitors. For instance, its broadcast “channels” allow users to “follow” particular accounts, and group chats can accommodate as many participants as desired.

These channels resemble Facebook groups or old-school online forums rather than typical instant messaging services. They enable followers to comment on posts and engage in discussions with one another.

Why is the Indian Government Considering Banning Telegram?

Telegram has over 5 million registered users in India, yet its future in the country is uncertain. The Indian government is considering banning the app due to its alleged involvement in extortion and gambling activities. The Centre launched an investigation to probe these allegations, and the outcome will determine whether the messaging app will be banned in India.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology are jointly investigating Telegram’s peer-to-peer communications. An official stated that the government is examining claims that the platform is being used for illegal activities, including gambling and extortion. Depending on the investigation’s results, the messaging service could face prohibition in India.

Telegram’s Role in the UGC-NEET Paper Leak

Telegram has previously faced criticism for facilitating the spread of false information and aiding criminal activities. Recently, the app came under fire during the UGC-NEET controversy, where leaks of the medical entrance exam paper were reportedly sold on the platform for INR 5,000 to INR 10,000.

Despite these challenges, Telegram maintains that it fully complies with Indian law. The company has appointed a chief compliance officer and a nodal officer and publishes compliance reports monthly. However, because Telegram lacks an office in India, the government has faced difficulties in engaging with the company.

In October 2023, the IT ministry sent letters to Telegram and other social media companies, requesting the removal of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from their platforms.