In what might come as some good news to TikTok users in India, the app is back on Google Play Store and Apple App Store after the Madras High Court on Wednesday, 24 April, lifted the ban on the social media platform in the country.
TikTok app back on Google Play Store. Screenshot taken on 30 April.
(Photo: The Quint)
The Madras HC had called for a ban on TikTok on 3 April, owing to reports of pornographic content being accessible to minors on the platform. The app was then removed from Google Play Store and Apple App Store after a couple of days.
The Supreme Court had earlier passed an order to act upon the plea, saying that the ban would be lifted if the Madras HC did not pass an interim order by 24 April.
The Madras High Court later lifted the ban and the Bench said that India doesn’t have a legislation like the US COPPA to protect children in cyberspace.
Lifting the ban, the court warned the platform aagainst using obscene videos in violation of its conditions.
TikTok had filed a counter affidavit in the Madras HC saying that its in-built security mechanism will moderate content and will not allow uploading of obscene and vulgar content.
“We are glad about this decision and we believe it is also greatly welcomed by our thriving community in India, who use TikTok as a platform to showcase their creativity. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue serving our users better,” a TikTok representative said.
While we’re pleased that our efforts to fight against misuse of the platform has been recognised, the work is never “done” on our end. We are committed to continuously enhancing our safety features as a testament to our ongoing commitment to our users in IndiaTikTok
TikTok, owned by Chinese company named ByteDance, was represented by senior lawyer Isaac Mohanlal.
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