Delhi HC to Deliver Verdict on Telegram’s Challenge to Temporary Ban During NEET Re-examination

The Delhi High Court is set to pronounce its judgment on Friday (June 19, 2026) on Telegram's plea challenging the Central Government's temporary ban on the messaging platform. The ban was imposed in the context of the NEET re-examination, with the government alleging that Telegram was being used for organised cheating.

The Centre defended its decision to block access to Telegram until June 22, arguing that the platform had become a key tool for networks involved in the leakage and circulation of NEET examination material. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that Telegram had been repeatedly asked to proactively monitor and curb illegal channels but failed to take meaningful action.

However, Telegram's counsel, Senior Advocate Dhruv Mehta, countered that the government had not justified the use of emergency powers under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. He argued that the government did not demonstrate why specific content could not be blocked instead of disabling the entire platform. He questioned the rationale, stating, 'The order says it is in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India. An examination like NEET will affect the sovereignty and integrity of India? What is the application of mind?'

The case underscores the tension between national security concerns and free speech. Section 69A allows the government to block public access to any information in the interest of sovereignty, defence, security, or public order. However, critics argue that such powers must be exercised proportionately.

The verdict will determine whether the government's temporary ban was lawful, and could set a precedent for future content regulation in India.