Government Extends WhatsApp Deadline Until July 9 To Respond On Username Feature Concerns

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has extended the deadline for Meta to respond to the government's queries regarding WhatsApp's proposed username feature, giving the company until July 9 to submit its explanation. A government official confirmed the revised deadline on Sunday. Earlier this week, ministry officials had asked WhatsApp to respond by July 6 after seeking a detailed clarification on the new feature. According to people familiar with the matter, the notice was issued after the government requested Meta to explain various aspects of the proposed functionality, including its implementation and potential implications for users.

The username feature is designed to allow WhatsApp users to connect with others without sharing their mobile phone numbers. Under the proposed system, each user would be able to create a unique username that can be used for messaging on the platform. Meta has clarified that the username is distinct from the existing display name feature, which appears on user profiles and does not have to be unique. According to the company, usernames will serve as unique identifiers linked to individual accounts, potentially offering users an additional layer of privacy by enabling communication without revealing their personal phone numbers.

The feature has already generated considerable interest globally as part of WhatsApp's broader efforts to enhance user privacy and provide more flexible ways to connect on the platform. However, government officials are examining the proposal before permitting its rollout in India. Sources had earlier told Hindustan Times that the Centre has directed Meta not to introduce the username feature in the country until consultations with the government are completed. The discussions are understood to focus on regulatory, privacy and security considerations associated with the proposed change.

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The extension of the deadline indicates that the government is continuing its review of the feature and has sought additional time for Meta to provide a comprehensive response. Officials have not publicly disclosed the specific concerns raised with the company or the precise issues under examination. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has been actively engaging with major technology platforms on matters relating to user privacy, data protection, online safety and compliance with India's digital regulations.

New features introduced by large technology companies are often reviewed to assess their compatibility with existing legal and regulatory frameworks before they are launched in the Indian market. As of now, Meta has not publicly commented on the revised July 9 deadline. The rollout of WhatsApp's username feature in India remains on hold pending the outcome of the government's consultations and the company's response to the ministry's queries. The final decision is expected to determine whether the feature can be introduced as planned or whether additional regulatory requirements will need to be addressed before its launch.

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