The central government has recently directed all smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on every phone sold or imported in India. While the government claims the app will help users fight cyber fraud, phone theft, and misuse of telecom resources, the move has triggered strong opposition. Critics argue that this step infringes on privacy and could be misused for state surveillance.
What is Sanchar Saathi and Why the Mandate?
Sanchar Saathi is a government-developed app designed to improve cyber safety for mobile users. It allows people to verify handset authenticity using IMEI numbers, report suspicious calls or messages, and block or track lost or stolen phones. The government’s order, issued in late November 2025, requires manufacturers to pre-install the app on all new phones within 90 days. For existing devices, the app must be pushed through software updates. The app must also appear prominently during initial phone setup and cannot be disabled or uninstalled by users. Officials say this is intended to reduce scams, curb telecom fraud, and make it easier for users to report suspicious activity.
Why Opposition and Experts Are Alarmed
Despite its security intentions, Sanchar Saathi has faced criticism from opposition parties and privacy advocates. Their main concerns include:
- A non-removable government app may allow access to users’ calls, messages, location, and other personal data, raising privacy concerns.
- Critics argue that the mandate violates the fundamental right to privacy and personal liberty under Article 21.
- Smartphone manufacturers were not consulted before the order, potentially creating compliance issues.
- Some opposition leaders warn that the app could be misused as a surveillance tool, drawing comparisons with past spyware incidents.
These concerns have sparked fears that Sanchar Saathi might give the government undue control over citizens’ personal devices.
Implications for Users, Industry, and Democracy
For users, the app could help recover lost phones and report fraud, but the inability to remove it limits personal control. For manufacturers, the mandate creates an operational burden and compliance challenge. From a digital rights perspective, the move sets a precedent for government-mandated apps, potentially eroding privacy and user consent. The debate highlights the ongoing tension between cybersecurity and personal freedoms, and the need to strike a balance between the two.
