Indian Government Blocks 14 Mobile Messaging Apps Over Terrorist Links

01-05-2023 : The Indian government has blocked access to 14 mobile messaging apps, citing reports of their use by terrorists. The decision was made based on recommendations from security forces, intelligence agencies, and investigative agencies. These apps were allegedly being used by terrorists to spread their extremist messages and receive messages from Pakistan. The ban applies to BeeChat, Nandbox, IMO, Element, Second Line, Jangi, Threema, Enigma, Media Fire, and Briar, which were being used by both terrorists and overground workers who assist them. These apps do not have any representative in India, making it difficult to file complaints against them.

The government’s decision to block these apps will make it harder for terrorists to run their networks. The Home Ministry was informed by multiple agencies that these apps were being used to incite youth in the Kashmir Valley. The ban was imposed under section 69A of the IT Act. In recent years, the Indian government has taken several measures to clamp down on terrorist networks, including targeting their funding and arresting those who provide them with support.