Indian authorities temporarily restricted access to Telegram ahead of the retake of one of the country's most important exams. The reason is concerns that the messenger could be used for cheating and spreading answers. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
On June 21, millions of applicants will retake the NEET-UG exam, which is required for admission to medical universities. The May results were annulled after a major scandal involving an alleged leak of exam papers.
India's National Testing Agency stated that Telegram was actively used by fraud groups. According to the agency, through channels and chats, applicants were promised access to the papers for large sums of money.
The restrictions will be in effect until June 22, the day after the retake. Additionally, authorities demanded that Telegram temporarily disable the message editing feature. Officials believe it was used to create fake evidence of a question leak.
However, the decision sparked controversy. Human rights activists and internet users believe the blockade will not solve the main problem. According to them, leaks occur within the exam system, and banning the messenger will only inconvenience millions of people who use Telegram for study, work, and communication.
The scandal around NEET-UG remains one of the most discussed topics in India. The country's Central Bureau of Investigation is investigating the possible leak. More than ten people have been arrested in the case.
The medical profession in India remains one of the most prestigious and in-demand. Competition for Indian medical universities is very high, so some applicants go abroad for medical education. This includes Kazakhstan, where thousands of Indian students study medicine every year.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that an Indian citizen, a final-year student at Karaganda Medical University, died after falling from a dormitory window. According to police, the investigation into the death was completed.