The controversy arose after the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) directed smartphone manufacturers on December 1 to sell phones with the government’s cyber safety app pre-installed, giving companies 90 days to comply. Opposition parties, led by Congress, have strongly opposed the move, alleging it infringes on citizens’ privacy.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi called the order “a direct attack on personal privacy,” describing the app as a potential surveillance tool. Other leaders, including KC Venugopal and Renuka Chowdhary, echoed these concerns, highlighting citizens’ constitutional right to privacy under Article 21. CPI-M MP John Brittas also warned that mandatory pre-installation could violate the Supreme Court’s 2017 Puttaswamy judgment on privacy.
Scindia clarified that the app aims to curb cyber fraud, prevent the misuse of fake or duplicate IMEI numbers, and help users block stolen or lost devices. Currently available for voluntary download on Google Play and Apple App Store, the app has already helped recover over 700,000 mobile phones. The DoT noted that pre-installation would enhance security and streamline reporting of cybercrime incidents.
Industry sources raised concerns about the lack of prior consultation, particularly with Apple, which prohibits pre-installation of third-party or government apps. Negotiations with manufacturers are expected to address such compliance issues.
The Sanchar Saathi app provides direct benefits to users by enabling reporting of fraudulent calls, messages, and WhatsApp chats, as well as tracking and blocking stolen devices. Officials indicated future updates could include AI-based fraud detection and enhanced tracking features, aiming to strengthen India’s telecom cybersecurity infrastructure.
The government maintains that the measure is intended to protect citizens and prevent cybercrime, while assuring that user autonomy remains intact.
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