India blocks Telegram before retest exam to curb cheating

India has blocked access to Telegram messenger ahead of a retest for a nationwide medical college entrance examination, the NEET, following a question paper leak scandal last month. The Ministry of Electronics restricted Telegram access until June 22, the day of the retest, and message-editing features until June 30, citing the platform's organized use by cheating rackets. This action follows widespread outrage and youth protests over the exam failure and a separate high school test marking fiasco. The NEET is highly competitive, attracting over two million aspiring doctors, and the intense pressure has fueled a lucrative industry and criminal networks selling leaked papers. India's Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested a chemistry lecturer alleged to be the 'kingpin' behind the leak.