India scraps mandatory Sanchar Saathi app pre-install after backlash

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published 45 minutes ago |  JP Asia Desk

The Indian government revoked its controversial order mandating pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app following widespread opposition over potential surveillance and threats to privacy.

Summary

NEW DELHI — The Indian government has withdrawn a directive that would have required smartphone makers to pre-install the state-run Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on all new devices. The policy reversal followed strong objections from privacy advocates, journalists’ groups, and major technology companies, who warned that the mandate threatened user autonomy and digital rights.

The original order, issued in late November, required manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi to preload the app within 90 days and enable its extension to existing devices through software updates. Critics argued that removing user choice and enforcing permanent system-level installation posed risks to privacy and press freedom.

Growing objections from tech firms and rights groups

Sanchar Saathi, administered by the Department of Telecommunications, allows users to track or block lost devices, verify SIM connections under their name, and report potential scam calls or messages. While the government promoted it as an anti-fraud tool, civil society groups warned that compulsory installation could expand state visibility over personal devices without transparent oversight.

Tech firms reportedly pushed back, with Apple among those resisting mandatory preloading. Digital rights organizations also noted that forcing a government-developed app onto devices could undermine journalists’ ability to safeguard sensitive communications or protect sources.

Government walks back mandate after public criticism

Responding to the backlash, the Communications Ministry announced that pre-installation would no longer be required and emphasized that users remain free to download or delete the app voluntarily. Officials said the decision was influenced by rising user adoption and feedback over the importance of maintaining device autonomy.

The reversal eased immediate concerns for reporters, activists, and digital rights groups, although experts note that broader regulatory trends, such as data governance rules and platform obligations, continue to raise questions about long-term privacy protections and press freedom.

KEY POINTS:

• India revoked its directive requiring smartphone makers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app
• Digital rights groups and major tech firms warned that the mandate threatened privacy and press freedom
• Sanchar Saathi offers fraud-prevention, device-tracking, and scam-reporting features
• Critics argued that the forced installation removed user consent and increased surveillance risks
• The government said voluntary uptake and public feedback led to the withdrawal of the order

ATTRIBUTION: Reporting based on publicly available coverage from media outlets

PHOTO: AI-generated; for illustrative purposes only.