SunstarTV Bureau: Ministry of Electronic and Informational Technology (MEIT) blocked 43 Chinese mobile apps from accessing by users in India on Tuesday.
The Centre said in an official statement, “This action was taken based on the inputs regarding these apps for engaging in activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order”.
Popular shopping website ‘AliExpress’ was among the banned apps, which comes a big blow to Chinese e-commerce major ‘Alibaba’.
Earlier on 28 June, 2020 the Centre had blocked access to 59 Chinese mobile apps and on 2nd September, 2020 118 more apps were banned under section 69A of the Information Technology Act.
Conflict between India and China has been high since May when New Delhi detected attempts by the Chinese troops to intrude into Indian Territory. On 15 June, soldiers of the two sides were engaged in a violent clash that killed 20 Indian troops and an unknown number on the Chinese side. India’s move to ban 58 apps followed soon after as did steps to block Chinese investments in key infrastructure sectors like roads and telecom.
Government is committed to protect the interests of citizens and sovereignty and integrity of India on all fronts and it shall take all possible steps to ensure that.
