Govt Warns Chinese Apps of ‘Strict Action’ for Violation of Ban

Nearly a month after the Indian government banned 59 Chinese apps, a notice sent to the companies has reportedly directed them to ensure strict compliance with the ban, or risk strict penal action.

The government had on 29 June, announced a ban on 59 apps, all of them Chinese-owned, including the hugely popular TikTok.

According to a press statement issued by the Ministry of Electronics & IT, the banned apps had “involved in activities which are unfavourable to sovereignty and integrity of India, the defence of India, the security of the state and public order.”

The IT ministry has reportedly inscribed to the corporations, advising that “the recommenced availability and service of these outlawed apps, directly or indirectly, is not only illegal but also a grievous offence under the Information Technology Act and other applicable Acts, which would attract penal provisions,” According to Hindustan Times.

If a banned Chinese app is found available for download or use, by any means, within India, it would be considered a violation of the ban order.

The government had invoked Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2008, citing threats to the privacy of users and data security as the primary reasons to block access to the app.

ShareIT, UC Browser, Shein and Club Factory are among the prominent apps that were banned.