Sanchar Saathi App Now Mandatory on Indian Smartphones

Government Orders Smartphone Manufacturers to Comply

In a move stirring concerns among privacy advocates and industry stakeholders, the government has directed smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all devices sold in India. According to officials, this step aims to enhance cybersecurity, prevent tampering, and curb the spoofing of IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers.

The directive, initially issued on November 21, mandates device makers—including Apple, Samsung, Google, Motorola, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo—to comply within 90 days, failing which they may face penalties.

About Sanchar Saathi

Sanchar Saathi is positioned as a citizen-centric initiative by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The app is designed to empower mobile users, strengthen device security, and raise awareness about government initiatives. Recently, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw unveiled an AI-powered portal integrated with Sanchar Saathi to help users locate lost or stolen phones.

App Visibility and Functionality Requirements

The government order specifies that the Sanchar Saathi app must be pre-installed, fully functional, and easily accessible on all devices at the time of initial setup. Manufacturers are required to ensure that the app’s functionalities cannot be disabled or restricted by the end user.

Privacy Concerns

Experts have raised concerns regarding the app’s potential implications for personal privacy. Nikhil Pahwa, founder of tech policy analysis platform Medianama, described the mandate as “bad news for mobile users.” He emphasized that a smartphone is a private space, containing sensitive conversations and personal information. Pahwa questioned whether the app could access files, messages, or other private data, especially considering the government’s exemptions under certain Data Protection laws.

The directive applies not only to devices manufactured domestically but also to imported smartphones and those in transit or pre-sale.

Legal Framework

The requirement to pre-install Sanchar Saathi is issued under the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024, along with its subsequent amendments. The government positions this measure as a step toward securing the nation’s digital infrastructure, while critics argue it raises serious privacy and user rights concerns.

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Sorit Chaudhary

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