Central Government seems to be exploring ways to block WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram and Instagram temporarily or permanently in India. On July 18th, Department of Telecom (DoT) served a letter to Telecom Companies in India (Jio, Airtel, Vodafone and MTNL) asking them to explore ways to block social networking platforms.
ASSOCHAM made it clear blocking these mobile apps and sites isn't a wise move as any such measure would hurt India's image as emerging hub for innovation in technology.
If needed, Department of Telecom wants Telecom Firms to ban the popular Mobile Apps to comply with Section 69A of the IT Act. This letter was served days after Centre warned WhatsApp over fake rumours leading to mob attacks which claimed the lives of over 20 people.
Experts say, Blocking WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and other Apps is possible. Countries like China and Iran do it often. Whereas, It won't be possible to ban them in a particular region and make them accessible to other regions in the country.
ASSOCHAM made it clear blocking these mobile apps and sites isn't a wise move as any such measure would hurt India's image as emerging hub for innovation in technology.
If needed, Department of Telecom wants Telecom Firms to ban the popular Mobile Apps to comply with Section 69A of the IT Act. This letter was served days after Centre warned WhatsApp over fake rumours leading to mob attacks which claimed the lives of over 20 people.
Experts say, Blocking WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and other Apps is possible. Countries like China and Iran do it often. Whereas, It won't be possible to ban them in a particular region and make them accessible to other regions in the country.