By Kavita Mistry 
TikTok, the popular short-video platform banned in India since 2020, may be showing signs of a potential return. Recently, users noticed that the official TikTok website is accessible again in India, sparking fresh speculation. However, the app is still not available on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, keeping fans in suspense.
Why Was TikTok Banned?
In June 2020, the Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi banned TikTok along with 58 other Chinese apps. The decision, based on concerns over data privacy and national security, abruptly cut off over 200 million Indian users from the app. This ban was part of a broader move to curb Chinese digital influence in India.
TikTok Website Live Again
Reports suggest that TikTok’s website is once again accessible on laptops and smartphones in India. While some users on X (formerly Twitter) confirmed the site works, others reported difficulties accessing it, hinting at a possible phased rollout or testing. Despite this, the app itself remains blocked on app stores, signaling that an official relaunch has not yet happened.
Diplomatic Ties Adding Fuel
The renewed buzz also coincides with improved India-China relations. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently visited New Delhi and held talks with Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. With PM Modi scheduled to attend the SCO Summit in China later this month, optimism is growing that easing diplomatic tensions could pave the way for apps like TikTok to re-enter the Indian market.
No Official Word Yet
Despite these developments, there has been no confirmation from either the Indian government or TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance. The 2020 ban remains in place, and without regulatory clearance, TikTok cannot legally operate in India.
What’s Next?
For now, TikTok’s status in India remains uncertain. The website being live is intriguing, but until there’s an official decision, fans will have to wait. Still, the chances of a comeback look stronger than they have in years.