TikTok lays off workers after permanent ban

NEW DELHI: China-based short video service TikTok that enjoyed 120 million users in India before the ban amid plans to invest $1 billion, on Wednesday announced to scale down its 2,000-strong workforce in the country.

The decision came against the backdrop of TikTok being among the 59 Chinese apps the government has decided to permanently ban. The app was first banned temporarily along with other apps in last June. "It is deeply regretful that after supporting our 2,000+ employees in India for more than half a year, we have no choice but to scale back the size of our workforce," a TikTok spokesperson said in a statement.

However, it did not disclose either the percentage or number of employers it has laid off or is going to inform them about the decision in days to come. "We have worked steadfastly to comply with the government of India order issued on June 29, 2020. We continually strive to make our apps comply with local laws and regulations and do our best to address any concerns they have.”