Government Withdraws Order Mandating Sanchar Saathi App Pre-Installation
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The government on Wednesday reversed its earlier decision that required all smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cyber security app on new and existing devices. The move marks a significant shift from the Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) November 28 directive that instructed brands to push the app through software updates and ensure the feature was available by default on all phones.
According to the government, the rollback comes at a time when the Sanchar Saathi app has seen rapid growth in voluntary adoption. Over 1.4 crore users have already downloaded the app, and officials reported a ten-fold jump in new registrations within a single day.
What Led to the Rollback
The DoT said that the original mandate was aimed at helping less-aware mobile users access cyber safety tools easily. The app was designed to assist citizens in identifying fraud numbers, blocking lost phones and reporting suspicious activity. Officials indicated that the rising download numbers show the public is increasingly accepting the platform without any compulsion.
However, the directive faced sharp criticism from digital rights groups, opposition parties and several users who raised concerns about privacy and the possibility of the app being used for surveillance. Some reports also claimed the mandate would make the app non-removable, sparking further debate.
Government’s Stand on the App
Union communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia dismissed allegations of snooping and said such misuse of the application was not possible. Government officials added that the app is secure and designed only to protect users from online fraud and cyber threats. They also reiterated that the Sanchar Saathi app can be removed at any time and its use is not compulsory.
According to official data, the app now helps in reporting around 2,000 fraud incidents every day. The recent surge of nearly six lakh downloads in 24 hours was highlighted as a strong sign of public trust and awareness.
Why It Matters
The debate around the Sanchar Saathi mandate has brought renewed attention to digital privacy, cyber safety and the balance between user protection and personal choice. While the government continues to promote the app as a security tool, the decision to withdraw compulsory installation reflects the growing impact of public feedback and concerns around digital rights.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The withdrawal of the Sanchar Saathi mandate shows how public sentiment and digital rights concerns can influence national policy, especially in areas involving personal devices and privacy. While the government continues to push for stronger cyber security tools, the decision highlights the importance of transparency and user choice in technology adoption. As cyber fraud rises across India, tools like Sanchar Saathi will remain important, but their success will depend on trust, voluntary use and public awareness.