Telegram has been restored on the Google Play Store after a temporary government-imposed restriction linked to the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination expired on June 22. The messaging platform has begun functioning again for some users, allowing fresh downloads and renewed access across Android devices.
The app had been removed from Google’s Play Store and blocked nationwide, acting on recommendations from the National Testing Agency (NTA). Authorities cited concerns that organised cheating networks were using the platform to circulate misleading content and alleged paper leaks ahead of the NEET re-test conducted on June 21.
Following the expiry of the order, Google has restored Telegram on the Play Store on June 23, 2026. While the app became accessible again for Android users, the app remains unavailable on Apple’s App Store, as verified at the time of filing this story.
The restoration marks the end of a week-long disruption that sparked legal challenges from Telegram and widespread discussion around the effectiveness of platform-level restrictions in curbing examination-related malpractice.
