Telegram CEO Durov’s allegation on Reliance role in access disruption needs evidence

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More importantly, the issues cited by Indian authorities are not unique to Telegram [File] | Photo Credit: REUTERS

The allegation, made publicly on X platform, has reignited debate around internet infrastructure, platform competition and government regulation. The claims remain unverified, and Reliance has not publicly responded.

To understand the significance of the allegation, it is important to understand how the internet works. BGP is often described as the internet’s routing system. Every message sent on Telegram, every file downloaded and every connection established depends on networks around the world knowing where Telegram’s servers are located. BGP acts as the digital map that directs this traffic across thousands of interconnected networks.

When functioning normally, BGP ensures data reaches its destination efficiently. However, if a network incorrectly or falsely announces itself as the preferred route for certain internet traffic, that traffic can be redirected, delayed or dropped entirely. This is commonly known as BGP hijacking.

Indian telecom Reliance is sabotaging access to Telegram for millions of users OUTSIDE India (including the UAE) via a rogue method called BGP hijacking.The sabotage seems intentional, as Reliance has ignored multiple reports. This may be part of a competitive war, as…

What makes the controversy particularly noteworthy is that it comes at a time when Telegram is already facing direct action from the Indian government. On June 16, New Delhi temporarily blocked Telegram nationwide until June 22, citing concerns that organised exam-fraud networks had used the platform to circulate leaked medical entrance examination material and deceive students ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination.

Authorities also directed Telegram to disable certain message-editing functions until June 30, arguing that the feature had been used to manipulate timestamps and fabricate evidence related to examination leaks. The restrictions were imposed under Section 69A