Centre to ban 138 betting, 94 loan lending apps with Chinese links

In a major crackdown, the Central government has reportedly initiated the process to ban 138 betting and 94 loan lending applications with Chinese links.

According to reports, on recommendations of the Home Ministry, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has taken necessary steps to block these apps in the country.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recommended the Ministry of IT to ban and block the selected apps this week.

The move was initiated after it was confirmed that these apps draws in Section 69 of the IT Act-- according to which the Centre has the power to issue directions for interception as they contain prejudicial material to sovereignty and integrity of India.

Many common people have suffered huge financial burden due to the use of these apps.

Several complaints were raised of extortion and harassment by people who had availed loans through mobile apps.

As per reports, desperate individuals are lured into taking on loan and then forced to pay high interest. Many were harassed when debtors were unable to repay the interest. Even suicide cases were reported.

States like Telangana, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh as well as central intelligence agencies has approached MHA raising concerns over the issue.

After conducting investigations and analyses the MHA had found out that the over 90 apps available on e-stores are working through third-party links.

Since betting and gambling are illegal in most parts of the country, earlier, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued an advisory stating that advertisements of these betting platforms are also illegal under Consumer Protection Act 2019 and the IT Rules, 2021.