MUMBAI: A total of 59 Chinese applications were banned by the Ministry of Information and Technology Monday night onwards. The list included popular video sharing app TikTok as well. A statement released by the government said that the applications are engaged in activities “prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order.” 

The ban has received mixed responses, especially because of the application’s reach to even the remotest places in the country. Let’s see what some celebs have to say about this move:   

Meera Deosthale: I just hope all the users of TikTok take this ban positively and not do anything drastic out of boredom or sadness. Mostly the users are adolescents. I know when things were not looking good this app was a sigh of relief. But hopefully, we will find new ways of having fun and entertainment soon, till then let's take care of each other and fight this together.

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Shashank Vyas: I wanted this to happen for months. Youth was not focusing on important things and were just wasting their time on this. Of late it became a more serious issue as it directly affected our nation and its security. I just hope youngsters understand the importance of this step and don't harm themselves in any way, especially during this lockdown period. Life is above all and there are other means to keep yourself entertained.

Sharad Malhotra: It is a fantastic move. I was never a fan of this application. Honestly, I found it extremely silly and a waste of time. Country is any day our first priority. I hope people look at it as a positive move and respect the decision.

Jasmin Bhasin: Our country is our first priority. People are dying at the border, the least we can do is refrain ourselves from making the banning of this app an issue. I know it was just the easiest means of entertainment for the users and their followers, but it had to be done. At least now people will use their time in creating new innovative things.

Vijayendra Kumeria: I am very happy for two reasons, I think it was a waste of time and energy, and the youth of our country was falling prey to this unproductive clip making app. A lot of people started thinking that making TikTok videos is acting. I have seen people standing in the middle of the road making stupid videos risking their lives. Another reason is that the government has taken a correct step by banning TikTok and the other apps. I support this decision with what the Chinese are doing with us on the border, why should we help the economy of a country who is betraying us big time.

Arun Mandola: Excellent initiative by Indian government. China is earning from India, and they are killing our Army officers. I am happy that the TikTok along with some 58 applications has been banned. Hatts off to our government.

Aaira Dwivedi: Government has taken the decision of banning Chinese applications, and we must respect it. I urge people to support the government’s decision without any doubt. Nation comes first.    

Aniruddh Dave: No offence to any TikTokers, but I was never on TikTok. I think we can do this for our country. When we download an app we give them access to photos and data on our mobile, so they get all our information. I never downloaded TikTok, but yes I started making some videos on an Indian application. I am not endorsing it, but it can definitely be a good start. RIP tiktok.

Pranitaa Pandit: I am extremely happy that the government has taken this step and implemented it. The banning of 59 Chinese apps is great because then we can make our own apps instead of contributing to the Chinese economy.

Khushbhoo Kamal: The decision taken by the Indian government of banning TikTok and other Chinese applications is very good and an intelligent decision for the security of our country. It is harmful for us because whatever data we put on the app, it can be misused. I am very happy with this decision.

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