The decision came from the department of telecommunications (DoT), which also contacted internet service providers to block access to both the apps’ websites.
Singapore-based Airalo and Spain-based Holafly are providers of eSIMs for a number of countries and regions. eSIMs are digital SIMs that enable users to activate a mobile plan with one’s network provider without using a physical SIM card.
In India, a company require no objection certificate (NoC) from DoT to sell foreign SIM cards.
Apparently, DoT instructed Apple and Google to remove Holafly and Airalo from their apps because they lacked the necessary authorization or NoC.
The apps are now unavailable in Google PlayStore, however were found on Apple’s AppStore as of January 5.
According to a government source, Apple was in talks to remove the apps.
The apps are still accessible for users in other regions but have been blocked for Google and Apple users in India.
Rules for Selling International SIMs
Organizations that plan on selling SIM cards from other countries must obtain a NOC from the DoT. According to DoT’s 2022 policy, these SIM cards provided to Indian customers are solely meant to be used abroad.
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