The Indian government last week launched a fresh offensive against Chinese apps, blocking another 43 new apps, amid continued tension at the border. With the latest move, India has banned 267 apps in addition to getting countries such as the US to follow suit.
Those ordered blocked include some top ones such as AliExpress, Taobao Live and CamCard. They join other big ones already banned such as TikTok, PUBG, UC Browser, WeChat, CamScanner, Baidu Search and Weibo in being disallowed in India’s thriving digital eco-system.
The government said the action was taken under Section 69A of the IT Act, as it accused the Chinese apps of engaging in activities prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order. “Ministry of electronics and IT has issued the order for blocking the access of these apps… based on the comprehensive reports received from Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Center, Ministry of Home Affairs… Government is committed to protect the interests of citizens and sovereignty and integrity of India on all fronts and it shall take all possible steps to ensure that,” the government said.
Govt to squeeze influence and sway of Chinese apps in India
The government has decided to squeeze the influence and sway of Chinese apps in India in view of the growing tensions between the two countries, especially as they have been accused of misusing the data of Indian citizens and businesses, surveillance and engaging in anti-India activities.
Those ordered blocked in the previous rounds had been served notice by the IT Ministry, and were asked to provide details with regards to their operations in India, their subscribers, their data collection and information processing practices, among other things.
The long list of questions also sought details about “unauthorised data access” by the Chinese companies to having weak security features leading to espionage/ surveillance through unauthorised data access.
The IT ministry has prepared a preliminary report that has been submitted to the Home Ministry for further directions. “The responses of the Chinese companies were factored in the preparation of this report, and a final decision on the fate of the companies will be taken at the highest echelons of the government,” sources said.
