TikTok, one of the world’s most popular short-video apps, was banned in India in June 2020 due to security and privacy concerns. Recently, a U.S. court banned TikTok in America, but former U.S. President Donald Trump has given it a temporary 75-day relief. There are now discussions about a major deal where American investors, including Elon Musk, might take control of TikTok. If this happens, TikTok could possibly return to India.
TikTok’s Possible Return to India
TikTok is currently owned by the Chinese company ByteDance. However, in the U.S., it operates with a partnership that includes American company Oracle. Trump wants to ensure that more than 50% of TikTok’s ownership remains with the U.S., with all software updates and data centers based in America. To achieve this, Trump has set a 75-day period for American companies to purchase shares from ByteDance.
Several major business figures are interested in buying TikTok. The leading contender is Oracle, which already has some shares in TikTok. Additionally, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has shown interest in the deal. Other potential buyers include billionaire Frank McCourt and a group of investors led by popular YouTuber MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson).
If TikTok comes under complete U.S. control, there is a chance it could return to India. However, TikTok must follow Indian government regulations and privacy laws before it can operate again. Currently, India has many alternative platforms like Instagram Reels, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads, and X (formerly Twitter), which comply with Indian laws.
