BAN ON CHINESE APPS: THE WAY FORWARD
The government’s decision to ban 59 Chinese apps — many extremely popular — has invited varied opinions. From youngsters to Bollywood celebrities, here’s what the larger consensus says
On Monday evening, the Indian government went ahead and decided to ban 59 Chinese applications. While some could see this coming, others were surprised with the move. Popular apps like TikTok, Shareit, Shein and WeChat, were the ones that have been banned. Nandikaa Sachdev, a Mumbai-based student is of the opinion that the reason given for banning the apps i.e — “engaging in activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order,” is a matter of grave concern, and cannot be taken lightly. She says, “I believe that the Chinese could be engaging in cyber activities which could be detrimental to our privacy.” A few weeks ago, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, hinted that the Chinese were behind numerous cyber attacks that the country was facing.
Moreover, the move to ban the widely popular app TikTok, is raising eyebrows, for the simple reason that it was voguish. “I am a content creator myself,” says Indore-based professional Shraddha Jandial, adding, “I do believe that what has to go viral will find its ways, TikTok has been a platform that has taken User Generated Content to a whole new level.” However, many youngsters have one question in mind. What about the people who work for these companies in India? What about their jobs? Vedika Palani, a Chennai-based student says, “I’ve seen numerous job postings by TikTok on Linkedin. I just hope the people who work for the company find new jobs. But this is the time to promote our brands and applications.” Disha Arora, a Delhi-based professional, agrees, and adds, “It is true that apps like TikTok have changed many lives. But if it is invading privacy, then action had to be taken.”