In a major development, the Indian government has withdrawn its earlier directive that required smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the state-run cyber security application ‘Sanchar Saathi’ on all new mobile devices. The decision comes after widespread privacy concerns, criticism from digital rights activists, and opposition parties raising strong objections to potential data misuse.
The Ministry of Communications, which had earlier issued the directive, announced that it will review the mandatory preloading requirement and instead work towards promoting cybersecurity awareness through voluntary adoption of the app. Officials clarified that the intent of the policy was to help users safeguard their devices and recover lost or stolen phones, not to monitor user activity.
What led to the controversy
The issue began when reports surfaced that the government had instructed smartphone makers, both Indian and global, to include the Sanchar Saathi app in every new device sold in the country. The app, developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), allows users to block lost or stolen phones, verify SIM card connections, and protect themselves from potential cyber fraud.
While the DoT claimed that the app served as a citizen service and had already helped millions of users block duplicate or fake SIM cards, privacy advocates and opposition parties questioned the motive behind making it mandatory. They argued that forcing manufacturers to preinstall a government app could set a worrying precedent and lead to misuse of citizens’ personal data.
Several opposition leaders said the move could indirectly allow government surveillance under the guise of cybersecurity. They demanded transparency on how user data would be collected, stored, and protected under the app’s framework.
Government’s clarification and withdrawal
Facing rising criticism, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and the DoT clarified that no smartphone manufacturer is currently required to preload the Sanchar Saathi app on new phones. The officials emphasized that the government respects users’ privacy and has no intention of compromising data security.
In its statement, the ministry said, “Sanchar Saathi is a public service platform aimed at empowering mobile subscribers. Its use is completely voluntary. The earlier communication with smartphone makers has been reviewed and withdrawn to avoid any misunderstanding.”
According to ministry sources, the decision to make the app mandatory was initially proposed as a way to enhance consumer safety against increasing mobile theft and fraud cases. However, after internal discussions and consultations with industry bodies, the government decided to withdraw the order and rework its approach to user outreach.
Industry and public reactions
Smartphone manufacturers welcomed the government’s latest decision, saying it provides clarity and avoids confusion among consumers. Several leading companies had earlier expressed uncertainty about the technical and policy implications of adding a new pre-installed app to all devices sold in the country.
Technology experts also appreciated the government’s willingness to listen to stakeholders and reconsider its policies. They highlighted that while cybersecurity awareness is vital, giving users the freedom to choose apps is equally important to maintaining trust.
Digital rights activists, on the other hand, called the rollback a positive step but stressed that stronger digital privacy safeguards are still needed. They urged the government to establish clear laws to prevent any future attempts at imposing applications or digital tools without public consultation.
What Sanchar Saathi actually does
Sanchar Saathi is a cyber safety platform launched by the Department of Telecommunications in 2023. It provides several useful features designed to help mobile subscribers manage their connections and protect themselves from fraud.
Some of its key features include:
- CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register): Allows users to block their lost or stolen mobile phones using the device’s IMEI number, making the phone unusable on any network.
- TAFCOP (Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management and Consumer Protection): Lets users check how many SIMs are registered under their name and report suspicious or unauthorized connections.
- Awareness and security tools: Offers guides on safe digital practices and telecom fraud prevention.
The DoT says that millions of users have already benefited from these services by voluntarily using the platform, which is available through its website and official Android app.
Broader context of privacy and digital governance
The Sanchar Saathi controversy reignited a larger debate on user privacy, app permissions, and government involvement in digital platforms. Over the past few years, the Indian government has introduced several measures to improve cybersecurity and digital safety, but some of them have faced scrutiny over privacy implications.
Experts say that building public trust should remain a top priority as India continues expanding its digital infrastructure. Citizens, they note, are becoming more aware of issues concerning surveillance, personal data protection, and the right to online privacy.
The withdrawal of the mandatory app order is seen as a step toward maintaining that balance — promoting security without compromising privacy.
What happens next
The government is expected to work closely with smartphone companies, telecom operators, and cybersecurity experts to promote voluntary use of Sanchar Saathi. Future campaigns are likely to focus on spreading awareness about mobile security through advertisements, social media, and digital literacy programs, rather than preloading the app.
Officials have assured that the app will remain available for download to any user who wishes to benefit from its safety features. The updated approach reflects the government’s intent to strengthen cybersecurity while respecting citizens’ choice and digital autonomy.
conclusion
The withdrawal of the preloading order for Sanchar Saathi highlights the importance of dialogue between policymakers, industry partners, and the public. It also underscores that transparency and voluntary participation are key factors in driving successful digital initiatives in India’s fast-growing mobile ecosystem.
