The Centre has blocked 652 mobile applications over concerns related to data security and other malpractices, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) informed the Lok Sabha.
In a written reply to a question raised by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Minister of State Jitin Prasada said the action was taken under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. The provision allows the government to restrict access to online content in the interest of sovereignty, security, and public order.
However, the government did not provide details on several key aspects. It did not share a list of Chinese-origin apps that may still be operating in India under rebranded versions, nor did it clarify what action has been taken against such entities.
According to earlier disclosures, India had already banned over 300 Chinese-linked apps since 2020 across categories such as social media, gaming, and e-commerce. These included widely used platforms like TikTok, PUBG Mobile, WeChat, and Shein.
The first wave of app bans began in June 2020 following heightened tensions after the Galwan Valley clash, with the government citing concerns over data being transmitted to servers outside India.
Over the years, concerns have also been raised about banned apps reappearing on app stores in modified or rebranded forms. The issue was highlighted again in Parliament, though the government did not specify measures taken to track or block such versions.
Earlier, in 2022, the government had identified 348 apps across multiple countries that were allegedly collecting user data without authorisation. With the latest figure of 652 blocked apps, the number has nearly doubled in the past four years.
The government also outlined steps taken to strengthen surveillance and digital security. It said new rules for CCTV systems now mandate disclosure of hardware origins, vulnerability testing, and certification. So far, 507 CCTV models have been certified, and non-compliant devices cannot be used by government departments.
However, the ministry did not provide details on procurement data for CCTV cameras over the past five years or specify the security protocols for artificial intelligence systems used by government agencies.
The issue of data security and digital surveillance continues to remain a key area of focus as India expands its digital ecosystem.
