Telegram: The matter of the alleged violation of rules by the Telegram app has also been raised in India, The IT Ministry has sought a report from MHA

Amid the arrest of Pavel Durov, the head of the instant messaging service Telegram, in France, the Ministry of Information and Technology (IT) has sought information from the Home Ministry on whether any violation has been done by the app in India as well. At present, the IT Ministry has not given any clear answer on this issue.

It is worth noting that Telegram founder and CEO Durov was detained at Paris Airport in France. It is alleged that his platform was used for crimes like money laundering and drug trafficking. According to reports, 39-year-old Durov, who holds dual citizenship of France and Russia, was detained at Paris-Le Bourget Airport on Saturday after landing in France from Azerbaijan.

Meanwhile, keeping in mind the developments in France, the IT Ministry has asked the Home Ministry to investigate the pending complaints against Telegram and take note of possible action. According to news agency sources, the IT Ministry is not an investigating agency in such cases and the CERT-In formed under the ministry also focuses on cyber security crimes and not on cyber crimes.

Sources said, "The real question here is, are there any complaints? Is there a similar situation in India? And what is the situation? And what action is required?"

Asked if Telegram, being a messaging app, can cite the haven provision, the sources said that in that case, they will have to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, provide information when required, and assist in any investigation.