Telegram CEO Alleges Reliance Role in Access Disruption, Jio Rejects Claims
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Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov has alleged that Reliance Jio was involved in disrupting access to the messaging platform through unauthorized internet routing practices, a claim that has been strongly denied by the telecom operator. The controversy comes amid heightened tensions surrounding Telegram’s temporary restrictions in India and has sparked debate over internet governance and digital freedom.
June 18, 2026 | New Delhi
A fresh controversy has emerged in India’s telecommunications and technology sector after Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov accused Reliance Jio of playing a role in disrupting access to the messaging platform through alleged Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) hijacking. Durov made the allegations on social media, claiming that internet traffic linked to Telegram was being improperly routed, affecting access for certain users outside India.
The allegations surfaced days after India imposed temporary restrictions on Telegram in connection with concerns over the use of the platform in the circulation of leaked examination material related to the NEET re-examination process. Durov has repeatedly criticized the restrictions, arguing that they have inconvenienced millions of legitimate users without effectively addressing the underlying issue of exam-related leaks.
Responding to Durov’s accusations, Reliance Jio categorically denied any involvement in BGP route manipulation or unauthorized routing activity. The company stated that it follows established global internet routing standards and rejected suggestions that it had interfered with Telegram’s accessibility. Jio further maintained that no network misconfiguration or deliberate action had been undertaken to impact the platform’s operations.
The dispute has drawn attention from industry observers, cybersecurity experts and digital rights advocates, who have highlighted the importance of transparency in internet infrastructure management. While no independent technical evidence has yet been publicly presented to substantiate the allegations, the exchange has intensified scrutiny over the relationship between technology platforms, telecom operators and regulatory authorities.
The episode unfolds against the backdrop of broader discussions on digital regulation, online communication platforms and internet accessibility in one of the world’s largest digital markets. As of now, neither side has indicated any legal action, and the matter remains a subject of public and industry debate.
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