Sanchar Saathi Mandate Scrapped After Privacy Backlash and Rapid App Adoption​

The Central Government has officially repealed its order mandating the compulsory pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on all smartphones sold in India. The Telecom Ministry issued a press release on Wednesday confirming the withdrawal, just a day after Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia clarified that using the app would remain voluntary. Consumers will continue to retain the freedom to delete the app at any time. The reversal follows widespread debates over digital freedom and privacy concerns.

The original order, released on November 28, required all smartphone manufacturers and importers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on devices sold within the country. Companies were given 90 days to comply and an additional 120 days to file a detailed compliance report. The directive was announced as part of the government’s broader strategy to combat digital fraud, rising cyber-crime cases, and the circulation of counterfeit mobile phones. However, its mandatory nature immediately sparked public and political backlash.

One major point of contention was the earlier clause stating that users would not be allowed to delete or disable the pre-installed app. This raised serious questions about potential misuse and violations of data privacy. Critics argued that mandatory surveillance tools, even under the guise of security, could pave the way for intrusive monitoring. Several civil society groups and digital rights advocates demanded transparency and public consultation before enforcing such policies.

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Political leaders also voiced strong objections, with Veteran Congress MP Shashi Tharoor urging the government to explain the rationale behind the decision. Tharoor argued that such impactful policies should undergo public scrutiny rather than being quietly implemented. The Congress party went a step further, labelling the app a potential “snooping tool” and demanding an immediate rollback. Their criticism added momentum to the growing pushback against the directive.

Despite the controversy, the government defended the app’s intended purpose of safeguarding users from mobile-related fraud. Sanchar Saathi allows consumers to verify a handset’s authenticity using its IMEI number—an essential step in India’s vast second-hand device market. The app also enables users to report lost or stolen phones, identify unauthorized mobile connections linked to their name, and access verified financial institution contacts. Authorities maintain that these features remain crucial in fighting digital crime.

With the rollback now in effect, the government has reiterated that citizens remain free to download and use Sanchar Saathi voluntarily. Officials emphasized that the app’s tools continue to serve public interest when used at the discretion of the user. The episode has underscored the importance of balancing security initiatives with privacy rights, prompting renewed calls for transparent digital policy-making. For now, consumers can breathe easier knowing their device choices remain free from compulsory installations.

Also Read: Scindia Defends Sanchar Saathi App, Denies Any Possibility Of Citizen Surveillance