TikTok is back in India? Here’s what you need to know

In June 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi banned TikTok along with 58 other Chinese apps due to data security and national security issues.

New Delhi: Is TikTok returning to India? Nothing is confirmed at the moment, but there are some good signs for fans of this short-video app. This Chinese app, banned in India since 2020, is now being seen by some users on the web, which has brought the possibility of its return into discussion.

In June 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi banned TikTok along with 58 other Chinese apps due to data security and national security issues. After this decision, more than 20 crore Indian users had to stop using this popular platform.

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Recently, it has been noticed that the official website of TikTok is working on both mobile and computer. However, some users reported that they were still unable to access the website, which suggests that its rollout is being done in a limited or phased manner. At the moment, TikTok is not available on India's Google Play Store and Apple App Store, so the website going live does not mean that the app is completely back.

India-China Relations

The growing good relations between India and China are also strengthening the discussions of TikTok's return. Earlier this month, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited India and met Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Both sides have emphasized on improving bilateral relations. In this episode, Prime Minister Modi will visit China later this month to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) conference. These diplomatic steps are expected to give China-linked apps a chance to return to India.

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However, despite the discussions that are taking place due to the activation of TikTok's website, the Indian government or the TikTok company have not yet made any official announcement. The ban continues and without regulatory approval, it is not possible for the app to work again in India.

Therefore, TikTok fans will have to wait a little longer. The chances of return have definitely increased, but until a concrete decision is taken, everything will remain uncertain.

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