Internet Freedom Foundation & Telegram

Internet Freedom Foundation: The Internet Freedom Foundation criticized the Telegram ban as a 'band-aid solution' and a 'disproportionate' response, arguing it affects legitimate users and raises constitutional concerns about free speech.

Telegram: Telegram has been temporarily blocked in India, removed from app stores, and its message-editing feature disabled, impacting its user base and operations in a major market. Its founder, Pavel Durov, criticized the ban as ineffective and unfair to millions of legitimate users.

Internet Freedom Foundation: The Internet Freedom Foundation has expressed concerns over the legal basis of the Indian government's notice to Meta Platforms — WhatsApp, arguing against preemptive product design dictates.

Telegram: Telegram, which already offers a username feature, submitted its reply to the government's notice explaining its safeguards; it will be subject to any new uniform regulations.

Internet Freedom Foundation: The Internet Freedom Foundation, an advocacy group, criticized India's government for attempting to ban Meta Platforms — WhatsApp's feature, arguing that the India — Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology lacks the legal authority to block product features before their release.

Telegram: Telegram is mentioned as a precedent for India's scrutiny of anonymity features, having faced a temporary ban and legal challenges over similar concerns regarding user identity and cyber fraud.