India return on mind, TikTok hopes for a 'positive outcome' from talks with govt

TikTok and PUBG Mobile, two of the most popular apps in India were banned this year by the Indian government. PUBG Mobile has announced its return to India with a new version of the game catered for users in the country. TikTok is still hopeful of its return in India, as the company retains its employees, and continues to work with the government.

TikTok India head, Nikhil Gandhi, in an email to employees assured the company is trying its best to return to India. TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance has employees in India handling TikTok and Helo operations. ByteDance has a workforce of 2,000 people in India who also received a salary bonus this year. The company also conducted an annual performance review cycle, and upskilled employees during this time.

TikTok along with 58 other Chinese apps was banned earlier this year citing security reasons. TikTok’s initial response was that the company will meet with government officials and work on the concerns for TikTok. 

On TikTok’s current stand with the government, Gandhi said, "We have demonstrated unequivocal commitment to comply with the local laws, including data privacy and security requirements, and are therefore optimistic about a positive outcome. Our clarifications have been submitted to the Government and we will continue to allay any further concerns they may have. Together with our employees, we remain dedicated to our users and creators who have found not only recognition but also new avenues of livelihood through our platform."

There is no confirmation that TikTok is coming back to India, and there’s no official word on it yet. But the company is expecting a “positive outcome”, and we may very well see a comeback. Shortly after the ban, there were reports of Microsoft, Reliance and even Airtel possibly acquiring TikTok’s India operations. But so far nothing official has been announced.

TikTok received the highest number of users and downloads from India. TikTok made waves globally, and particularly in India too with a strong and viral creator platform, something Facebook and Google hasn’t been able to accomplish. There have been desi TikTok rivals as well but the feedback hasn’t been great. Facebook also launched its TikTok-rival, Instagram Reels just days after the ban.