In what could be a big comeback for TikTok, the popular video making platforms seems to be returning to India as its website has become accessible for several users for the first time in five years.
The Chinese video making platform, TikTok, was banned by the Government of India in 2020 due to security concerns. However, as of Friday, many users have reported that the website has suddenly become accessible to them, multiple reports said.
However, the application is still not available on the play store.
Why India banned TikTok?
In June 2020, the Centre vide a notification said that it has decided to block 59 applications as enough information was available to prove that these were “engaged in activities which is prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order.”
The Ministry of Information Technology invoked it’s power under section 69A of the Information Technology Act read with the relevant provisions of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking of Access of Information by Public) Rules 2009 and decided to block 59 apps.
The list included TikTok, Shareit, Kwai, UC Browser, UC News, Vigo Video, Baidu map, Clash of Kings and DU battery saver among others.
India-China relations back on track
Coincidentally, the development comes at a time when India and China are seeing improvement in their ties, especially after US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on both the countries. Recently, Chinese foreign minister Wany Yi visited India and conveyed Beijing’s strong support for New Delhi against Trump’s tariffs.
Wang met National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also extended Chinese President Xi Jinping’s invite to PM Modi for the SCO Summit to be held on Aug 31- Sept 1.
Chinese envoy to India also on Thursday backed India and said the two Asian neighbours were ready for a “new chapter of dragon elephant tango“.
