New Delhi – The federal government has formally withdrawn its earlier directive requiring all smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on new devices. The decision follows widespread criticism over privacy concerns and “snooping” allegations.
The original order, issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on 28 November 2025, had mandated that new handsets sold in India ship with Sanchar Saathi pre-loaded, visible at first startup, and with full functionality enabled. The aim was to enable consumers to verify device IMEI genuine-ness, check for previous theft reports, and report suspicious telecom or fraud activity.
However, the directive sparked sharp pushback from opposition parties, civil liberties groups and technology stakeholders — who warned it could undermine privacy and give the state unprecedented access to personal devices. Prominent voices argued that mandatory pre-installation without informed consent risked turning every new phone into a surveillance tool.
In the face of mounting criticism, the government revised its stance. According to a statement from the DoT and remarks by Jyotiraditya Scindia (Union Communications Minister), Sanchar Saathi will remain available for users – but only as an optional, user-controlled app. Consumers will be free to delete or ignore it if they choose.
Officials argued the rollback does not indicate a rejection of the app’s core intent: protecting consumers from mobile fraud, tracking stolen devices and ensuring telecom-security. Rather, it reflects a recalibration – giving citizens choice while still promoting digital safety.
Since its launch, Sanchar Saathi’s promoters claim the app helped flag suspicious devices and fraud attempts – a figure often cited by supporters of the initiative. But the controversy over data privacy and user consent exposed a larger tension: in India’s push for digital security, how far should state oversight go before infringing on personal freedoms?
With the mandatory rule revoked, the onus is now on users. For those who value device-security checks, Sanchar Saathi remains an option. For others concerned about privacy – the choice to reject or uninstall the app now stands affirmed.
