TikTok ban , the wildly popular short-video platform, is once again in the news in India after reports surfaced that parts of its website became accessible to some users. Despite this, Indian authorities have confirmed that the nationwide ban imposed in 2020 remains unchanged.
Highlights on TikTok ban
- TikTok remains banned in India since June 2020, despite reports of partial website access.
- Government confirms no change: officials state claims of the app’s return are “misleading.”
- Website partially accessible: some static pages like “About” and “Contact” are opening for a few users.
- Key functionalities blocked: users cannot log in, view, or upload videos.
- No official re-entry plans: analysts suggest the activity could be technical anomalies.
“The ban on TikTok has not been lifted, and any reports claiming otherwise are misleading,” a senior government source told The Economic Times.
Background of the Ban
India banned TikTok in June 2020, along with 58 other Chinese apps, citing national security and data privacy concerns. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued directives to block these platforms and remove them from app stores. The ban was described as a measure to “ensure the safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace”.
Website Access Causes Stir
Recently, users reported that TikTok’s homepage and informational sections such as “About” and “Contact” were accessible without a VPN. Navbharat Times noted that “few users are able to open TikTok’s website in India, but functionalities like login and video playback remain disabled”.
“Some parts of the website may load, but users still cannot log in, view videos, or upload content. The ban on functionalities is intact,” government sources clarified to NDTV .
Government’s Firm Stand
Officials emphasized that no new directive has been issued to restore TikTok’s services. ISPs continue to block app functionality, and the partial website accessibility is believed to be a technical anomaly related to static content hosted on global content delivery networks.
“Even if some static content appears accessible, users should not assume the platform is returning,” a technology analyst told Moneycontrol.
Impact on Users and Market
Despite the buzz, Indian users cannot download the app legally, nor create or view videos. Short-video alternatives like Moj, Josh, and MX TakaTak continue to dominate the local market, capitalizing on TikTok’s absence.
Conclusion on TikTok Ban
In summary, TikTok’s reappearance in limited form on the web has reignited curiosity but has not altered its official status. The Indian government remains steadfast, maintaining that the ban stands firm and no re-entry has been approved.
If TikTok opens in India and the ban is removed by the government, it’s very good news for the company’s investors because some news came that a job cuts in TikTok’s UK arm because of AI.
Tripti Yadav writes about digital growth strategies, combining SEO, design, and marketing insights.
