Rumors of TikTok’s comeback in India surfaced on August 22, 2025, after several users noticed that the TikTok website was accessible without a VPN. Some media outlets even speculated that the short video platform was preparing for a return.
However, TikTok has officially confirmed that the app remains banned in India and the website’s accessibility was just a technical glitch.
TikTok Ban in India Still Stands
Despite the website going live, the TikTok app is still unavailable on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store in India.
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A TikTok spokesperson, in an emailed statement to TechCrunch, clarified:
“We have not restored access to TikTok in India and continue to comply with the Government of India’s directive.”
Additionally, a senior IT Ministry official confirmed that the ban under Section 69A of the IT Act has not been revoked. The government has not taken any steps to lift restrictions or unblock TikTok.
India-China Relations Context
The speculation comes at a sensitive time when India and China are working on stabilizing their strained ties after the Galwan Valley clashes of 2020. Recently, both nations announced measures to improve relations, including:
- Maintaining peace along the border
- Reopening border trade
- Encouraging investment flows
- Resuming direct flight connectivity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit China from August 31 to September 1 to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, following an invitation from President Xi Jinping.
Why TikTok Was Banned in India
TikTok, along with AliExpress and 57 other Chinese apps, was banned in June 2020 following the Galwan Valley clashes. The ban was enforced under Section 69A of the IT Act, citing concerns over national security and data privacy.
Since then, TikTok has not been available in India despite its massive popularity before the ban.
Final Verdict
The TikTok ban in India remains unchanged despite the website glitch that fueled rumors of its return. The platform continues to comply with the government’s directives, and there has been no official decision to lift the ban.
As India-China ties gradually improve, speculations may continue, but for now, TikTok’s comeback in India is not happening.
