Government of India Takes Drastic Measure: Blocks 100+ Apps

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : In a sweeping move, the Indian government has blocked over 100 mobile applications, citing national security and data privacy concerns. The decision, which was made in consultation with the country's intelligence agencies, aims to protect Indian citizens' sensitive information from being compromised.

According to sources, the blocked apps were found to be transmitting sensitive user data to servers located outside India, potentially jeopardizing national security. The government has also expressed concerns over the apps' failure to comply with India's data localization norms. "The government has taken this step to safeguard the interests of Indian citizens and protect the country's sovereignty," said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). "We will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure the security and integrity of our digital ecosystem."

The blocked apps include a mix of gaming, social media, and utility applications, many of which were popular among Indian users. While the government has not released a comprehensive list of the blocked apps, sources suggest that several Chinese apps are among those affected. The move is seen as part of India's broader efforts to tighten its digital borders and protect its citizens' data. In recent years, the country has implemented a range of measures aimed at promoting digital sovereignty, including data localization norms and restrictions on foreign investment in the tech sector.

The blocking of the apps has sparked a mixed reaction, with some users expressing concern over the loss of access to their favorite apps. Others have welcomed the move, citing the need for greater data security and digital sovereignty. As the debate continues, the Indian government has made it clear that it will not hesitate to take further action to protect the country's digital interests. With the rise of the digital economy and the increasing importance of data security, India's move is likely to be watched closely by other countries seeking to assert their digital sovereignty.