Telegram CEO Alleges Reliance Interference, Claims Millions Faced Access Disruptions Outside India
Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov has alleged that Indian telecom giant Reliance disrupted access to the messaging platform for millions of users outside India, triggering fresh debate over digital competition and internet neutrality. The allegation comes at a time when Telegram has already been under scrutiny in India following temporary restrictions linked to the NEET examination controversy.
June 17, 2026 | Dubai/New Delhi: In a public statement shared through his official Telegram channel, Pavel Durov claimed that Reliance allegedly interfered with Telegram’s connectivity for users in regions outside India, including the United Arab Emirates, through what he described as a “rogue method” known as Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) hijacking. According to Durov, the alleged disruption impacted millions of Telegram users and raised concerns about fair digital competition in the telecom ecosystem.
The Telegram chief suggested that the move may be linked to a broader competitive battle involving messaging and telecom services. While Durov did not present technical evidence publicly, his remarks quickly gained traction online, sparking reactions from technology experts and digital rights observers. The accusation has also intensified discussions around the vulnerability of internet infrastructure and whether large telecom operators could potentially influence platform accessibility.
The development comes shortly after India temporarily restricted Telegram over concerns that the platform was being used to spread leaked examination material related to the NEET re-examination process. Durov had strongly criticised the temporary action, arguing that the restriction punished millions of legitimate users while failing to prevent leaks, which he claimed simply shifted to alternative platforms.
As of now, Reliance has not officially responded to Durov’s allegations. No formal confirmation has emerged from Indian telecom regulators or independent cybersecurity agencies regarding the claimed BGP interference. However, the controversy is expected to fuel broader conversations around platform accessibility, telecom competition, and internet governance in India and beyond.
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