TikTok's Return Imminent? New Job Openings Stir Speculations in India
In an unexpected move, TikTok India has started hiring for crucial roles at its Gurgaon office amidst ongoing discussions about its potential comeback. This development comes despite the app’s continuing ban in the country.
Hiring Sparks Curiosity
Recently, TikTok advertised new positions on LinkedIn, specifically seeking a “Content Moderator (Bengali Speaker), Trust and Safety” and a “Wellbeing Partnership and Operations Lead, Trust and Safety.” This hiring initiative follows TikTok’s website becoming accessible to some Indian users, hinting at possible plans for the platform’s return.
No Ban Lift, Says Government
Even as TikTok’s recruitment efforts gain attention, the Indian government has firmly denied any plans to lift the ban on the app. According to startuppedia.in, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has clarified that no unblocking order for TikTok has been issued, terming any such news as “false and misleading.”
Responsibilities Highlighted
In its recruitment advertisement, TikTok emphasized the responsibilities of the Content Moderator role. The role includes managing diverse content types—ranging from everyday life to more sensitive categories such as hate speech and child safety, ensuring the safety and empowerment of its global online community.
The Story Behind the Ban
The ban on TikTok in India dates back to June 2020, a decision made following tensions in the Galwan Valley and concerns over national security. Along with TikTok, 58 other Chinese apps faced the same fate due to alleged security threats and data privacy issues.
A Massive User Base
Before being banned, TikTok was immensely popular in India, boasting around 200 million users as of January 2020. The app’s global appeal lies in its unique platform for short-form video content, with which it captivated millions, serving diverse cultural and entertainment needs.
TikTok’s ability to quickly adapt and penetrate local cultures makes this news potentially game-changing. Whether these job openings signal the app’s preparation for a grand return or are merely efforts to maintain global operations, remains to be seen. As decisions unfold, millions who once used the app in India will be watching closely.
