TikTok comeback in India has begun with its website becoming accessible after 5 years. But is the TikTok app returning to India soon? Here’s the latest update.
Introduction
After being banned for five long years, TikTok has made a quiet comeback in India (TikTok comeback in India) —at least partially. Several users in the country can now access the short-video platform’s official website, though the TikTok app remains unavailable on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. This partial return has sparked fresh curiosity about whether TikTok will officially re-enter India soon.
Why Was TikTok Banned in India?
In June 2020, India banned TikTok along with 58 other Chinese apps, citing national security concerns after the Galwan Valley clash between Indian and Chinese troops. At the time of the ban, TikTok had over 200 million Indian users, making India its largest overseas market.
The sudden exit of TikTok left a huge gap in the short-video space. This gap was quickly filled by Indian apps such as Moj, Josh, Chingari, and MX TakaTak, while global platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts also gained massive traction.
What Has Changed in 5 Years?
Over the past few years, many Indian short-video platforms have either shut down, pivoted, or merged with bigger players. Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts remain dominant, but the buzz around TikTok’s comeback in India shows that the platform still holds a strong brand recall.
Additionally, relations between India and China have seen some improvement in recent months. Some previously banned apps like Shein, Xender, and TanTan have already made a return to Indian app stores. This raises hopes that TikTok may follow the same path.
TikTok Website is Live, But App Still Absent
As of now, TikTok’s website is accessible to many Indian users. However, there’s no official word on whether the TikTok app will be reinstated on Indian app stores.
Experts believe that a TikTok comeback in India seems unlikely in the near future. The Indian government remains cautious because of TikTok’s influence on public opinion and its deep penetration in international markets, especially in the US.
What Does This Mean for Indian Creators?
If TikTok eventually makes a full comeback in India, it could shake up the short-video ecosystem once again. Creators who built massive followings on TikTok before the ban might be able to revive their old audiences.
However, with Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts already dominating the space, TikTok will face stiff competition if it returns. The biggest winners would be creators and brands, who would gain another powerful platform to reach audiences.
Final Thoughts
The TikTok comeback in India has begun quietly with its website becoming accessible again after five years. While this sparks speculation, the TikTok app’s return still remains uncertain. Whether or not TikTok reclaims its throne in India depends largely on government approval and user adoption.
For now, Indian creators and digital marketers should stay prepared, because if TikTok officially returns, the short-video battle in India will become more competitive than ever.
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FAQs
1. Is TikTok unbanned in India now?
No, TikTok is not fully unbanned. Only its website is accessible, but the app is still not available on app stores.
2. Can I download TikTok from Play Store in India?
No, TikTok is not on Google Play Store or Apple App Store in India yet.
3. Will TikTok come back to India in 2025?
There is no official confirmation, but its website being live again could be a step toward re-entry.
4. Which apps replaced TikTok in India?
Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts currently dominate, while Indian apps like Moj and Josh tried to fill the gap.
5. Why was TikTok banned in the first place?
It was banned in June 2020 due to national security concerns following India-China border tensions.