India using national security as excuse to block apps: Chinese spokesperson

 

New Delhi: A day after the Centre blocked access to 43 more Chinese mobile apps, China on Wednesday accused India of using national security as an excuse to prohibit mobile Apps with Chinese background.

“China firmly opposes Indian side’s repeated use of ‘national security’ as excuse to prohibit mobile Apps with Chinese background. Hope India provides fair, impartial and non-discriminatory business environment for all market players and rectify discriminatory practices,” said Ji Rong, Chinese spokesperson.

On Tuesday, Ministry of Electronics and IT issued the order for blocking the access of 43 Chinese mobile apps by users in India for being prejudicial to the sovereignty, integrity and defence of the nation.

“Government of India today issued an order under section 69A of the Information Technology Act blocking access to 43 mobile apps. This action was taken based on the inputs regarding these apps for engaging in activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order,” the release said.

The blocked apps include Alibaba Workbench, AliExpress, Alipay Cashier, CamCard and WeDate.

Earlier on June 29, the government had blocked access to 59 mobile apps and on September 2, 2020 another 118 apps were banned under section 69A of the Information Technology Act.