A day after the Centre directed smartphone makers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cybersecurity app on all new devices, a political storm has erupted over privacy, user autonomy, and surveillance fears. Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia has now clarified that although the app will come pre-loaded, users are free to delete it.
Government Clarifies: “Sanchar Saathi Is Optional”
Speaking to ANI, Scindia said:
“If you don’t want Sanchar Saathi, you can delete it. It is optional.”
The minister added that the government’s intention is merely to introduce users to a security-enhancing tool, not force them to keep it installed. The clarification follows widespread criticism after the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) mandated all smartphone manufacturers to ship devices with Sanchar Saathi pre-installed and non-removable.
Why the Backlash? Privacy, Surveillance and Transparency Concerns
Sanchar Saathi allows users to:
- Track and block lost phones
- Check the number of mobile connections issued in their name
- Flag spam calls, fraud communication and malicious links
However, privacy experts argue that the mandate undermines user autonomy and may allow the government broader access to device data. Activists say the app’s wide-ranging permissions could lead to surveillance risks—a concern amplified by India’s large mobile base of over 1.2 billion users.
Congress leaders termed the move “Big Brother surveillance”. Renuka Chowdhury submitted an adjournment motion in the Rajya Sabha demanding an immediate discussion. Even Shashi Tharoor, often supportive of government tech policies, called compulsory pre-installation “troubling”.
BJP Defends Mandatory Pre-Installation
BJP MP Shashank Mani Tripathi defended the DoT directive, saying the app would strengthen digital safety and counter rising cyber-attacks.
Tripathi said:
“This communication app will enhance people’s sense of security. Our data won’t escape.”
The government maintains that Sanchar Saathi has already helped recover over 700,000 stolen phones, proving its value in fighting device fraud and IMEI cloning.
Political Tussle Intensifies in Parliament
Opposition parties accuse the government of bypassing debate, calling for detailed justification of the move. They are also pressing for discussions on voter roll revisions, national security concerns following the Delhi blast, and rising air pollution.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju countered the allegations, stating the Opposition is “manufacturing issues” to stall proceedings. The winter session continues amid repeated disruptions.
