#InformationTechnology #NewMobileApp

Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
Journalist & Research Analysis
Nutritionist And Health Educator

The Government of India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had earlier issued an order on 1 December, directing smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all new mobile phones sold after March 2026. The ministry had also stated that the app should not be removed or restricted on these devices.

However, after strong criticism from the Opposition and concerns raised about privacy, the central government has now withdrawn this order. The Ministry of Communications issued an official press release announcing the withdrawal.

Why the Government Introduced the App

According to the press note, the Sanchar Saathi app was made compulsory to ensure wider access to cyber safety tools. The government stated:

The app is designed purely to protect citizens from cybercrimes, fraudsters and malicious activities online.

It helps in reporting suspicious activities and enables citizen participation in improving safety.

The app has no functions other than safety, and users are free to delete it anytime.

The ministry added that 1.4 crore users have already downloaded the app and are reporting around 2,000 fraud incidents every day. It also mentioned that 6 lakh new users registered in a single day, showing rising trust among citizens.

Why the Decision Was Withdrawn

The press release says that due to the increasing voluntary adoption of the app, the government has decided that:

Pre-installation will no longer be mandatory for smartphone manufacturers.

Citizens can freely choose whether to use the app.

What the DoT Had Originally Ordered

The original DoT guidelines stated that:

Every new mobile phone must have the Sanchar Saathi app pre-installed.

Existing devices would receive the app through an OS software update.

The app would be used to verify IMEI numbers, report spam calls, and block stolen phones.

The purpose was to prevent fake devices, reduce cybercrime, and track misuse of telecom resources.

However, the guidelines did not clearly explain whether the app would automatically access IMEI numbers or require manual input from users.

Opposition Criticism and Privacy Concerns

The Opposition strongly opposed the decision and called it unconstitutional.

Congress Accusations

Congress leaders said:

The move violates the Right to Privacy, a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution.

A pre-installed app that cannot be removed could become a government surveillance tool.

It may allow monitoring of calls, messages, and location under the name of “security.”

KC Venugopal wrote that such an app would act like a device to “keep track of every citizen’s activities.”

Other Critics

Political commentator Tehseen Poonawalla called it an attack on freedom and privacy.

Priyanka Gandhi labeled Sanchar Saathi a “spy app”, claiming citizens should be able to message privately without government monitoring.

Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said the decision was similar to “Big Boss surveillance.”

Government Response

Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified:

The app is optional — users can delete it anytime.

It activates only when a user registers; without registration, it stays inactive.

The app’s purpose is to protect citizens from fraud and mobile theft, and to extend cyber safety to people who may not be aware of these risks.

He added that the Opposition is trying to create controversy where none exists.

SIM-Binding Requirement

DoT also highlighted a separate issue:

Manipulated IMEIs can result in the same IMEI appearing across multiple devices.

To prevent such fraud, the government wants SIM-binding, meaning certain apps and services would work only on devices with the registered SIM.

This rule must be implemented within 90 days, and compliance reports submitted in 120 days.

About the Sanchar Saathi App

Launched in 2023, the app helps users:

Report fraudulent calls

Identify SIM cards issued in their name

Block stolen or lost phones

Verify authentic IMEI numbers

It is similar to TRAI’s DND app, which blocks commercial spam.