TikTok Still Banned in India: Govt Clears Air on Viral Comeback Claims
In 2020, India banned TikTok and 58 other China-owned apps, citing data security concerns.
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| TikTok comeback rumors |
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TikTok Ban in India: Rumors vs Reality
Social media was buzzed recently with claims that TikTok's official website had become accessible to some users in India, sparking speculation about the app's possible return. While users reported being able to open TikTok's homepage, officials clarified that there was no access beyond the homepage—meaning no logins, no video uploads, and certainly no downloads from app stores.
At the same time, rumors also suggested that shopping apps like AliExpress and Shein might be back, but users confirmed that these services remained non-functional.
Chinese Apps Returning to India – But Not TikTok
Earlier in February 2025, many of the Chinese apps banned in 2020 made a surprise return to Indian app stores as diplomatic ties between India and China improved. Apps like Xender and TanTan reappeared —some in original form, others in tweaked or cloned versions.
India Today's OSINT team reviewed over 200 banned mobile applications and found that at least 36 apps had returned in some form. However, TikTok—once India’s most beloved short-video app—remained missing.
Why Was TikTok Banned in India?
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| Will TikTok return to India? |
India banned TikTok and 58 other Chinese apps on June 29, 2020, citing data security risks and espionage concerns. The ban came just two weeks after the deadly Galwan Valley conflict, in which at least 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives.
The government accused TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, of misused data and potentially compromising national security. The ban marked a major exacerbation in India-China tensions, which had already reached their highest point in decades.
Why Did TikTok Revival Rumors Spread?
The buzz began when some users noticed that TikTok’s website could be opened in India. Social media exploded with speculations that the platform was preparing for a relaunch. However, officials confirmed that:
Users cannot log in or watch/upload videos.
The TikTok app remains unavailable on Google Play Store and Apple App Store in India.
ByteDance has not issued any official statement about a comeback.
TikTok’s Lost Market in India
Before the ban, India was TikTok's biggest international market, boasting 150–200 million users. The app had become a cultural phenomena, giving millions of creators and small businesses a platform to shine.
Post-ban, local alternatives like Moj and Chingari tried to fill the gap, but global giants like Instagram Reles and YouTube Shorts quickly dominated the short-video space. For many smaller creators and vendors, however, TikTok’s sudden disappearance was more than just a digital loss—it was an economic setback.
India-China Relations and TikTok’s Future
Interestingly, the rumors about TikTok’s revival come at a time when India-China relations appear to be warming. Recent developments include:
Resumption of border trade at Lipulekh, Shipki La, and Nathu La.
Plans to restore direct flights and ease visa access.
Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled visit to China for the SCO Summit (Aug 31 – Sep 1, 2025).
Despite these positive signs, the TikTok ban remains firmly in place, and there is no official confirmation of its return.
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❓ FAQs About TikTok Banned in India
1. Is TikTok coming back to India in 2025?
No, TikTok is still banned in India as of 2025. Although some users reported being able to access its homepage, the government has confirmed there is no official comeback of the app.
2. Why was TikTok banned in India?
TikTok was banned in June 2020 due to national security concerns. The Indian government accused its parent company ByteDance of misusing user data and potentially aiding Chinese espionage activities.
3. Can I download TikTok from the Play Store or App Store in India?
No. TikTok is not available on Google Play Store or Apple App Store in India. Any versions claiming to be TikTok are either clones or unsafe third-party apps.
4. Why are people saying TikTok is working again in India?
Some users noticed that TikTok’s website was accessible, sparking rumors of a return. However, users cannot log in, watch, or upload videos, meaning the platform is still non-functional in India.
5. Which Chinese apps have returned to India?
Several Chinese apps like Xender and TanTan reappeared on app stores in 2025, some in original form and others as cloned versions. However, TikTok remains banned.
6. What are the alternatives to TikTok in India?
After the TikTok ban, Indian apps like Moj, Chingari, Josh, and Roposo gained popularity. However, global platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts have captured most of TikTok’s user base.
7. How big was TikTok in India before the ban?
India was TikTok’s largest international market, with an estimated 150–200 million active users before it was banned in June 2020.
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