The Centre has rolled back its controversial order that required all new smartphones in India to come pre-installed with the Sanchar Saathi app. The move follows strong criticism from privacy advocates, opposition leaders, and major smartphone makers, including Apple, who argued that the directive infringed on user privacy and autonomy. Sanchar Saathi is a citizen-centric digital platform developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications. It was launched in May 2023 as a web portal and later introduced as a mobile application in January 2025.
The platform is designed to help users trace and block lost or stolen phones, verify IMEI numbers. Check the number of SIM cards registered under their identity, and report telecom-related fraud or spam. The initiative aims to combat growing issues like mobile theft, fake IMEIs, and fraudulent SIM registrations across the country. According to DoT data, the app has already helped block more than 42 lakh stolen phones and detect 26 lakh recovered devices.
Privacy Concerns Spark Outcry
The controversy began when the government directed smartphone manufacturers to pre-install Sanchar Saathi on all new devices sold in India. The order also stated that the app should remain visible, active, and non-removable. This clause immediately drew criticism. Opposition parties likened the app to a “digital surveillance tool” comparing it to the Pegasus spyware controversy. Civil society groups and digital-rights experts raised concerns that such mandatory installation could open doors to potential data monitoring or misuse. Tech companies, including Apple and several Android manufacturers, reportedly pushed back against the directive, saying it violated user consent and platform security policies.
Amid mounting backlash, the government has withdrawn the mandatory installation order, clarifying that Sanchar Saathi will remain voluntary. Users can choose to download or uninstall the app as they wish. Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia defended the app, saying it empowers citizens rather than monitoring them. He added that the tool serves as a “safety mechanism” against telecom fraud, not as a surveillance platform. Despite the privacy debate, Sanchar Saathi remains one of India’s most ambitious attempts to curb digital and telecom-related crimes. It connects directly with the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR), allowing real-time blocking of lost or stolen phones. Helps users track SIM misuse through Aadhaar-linked verification. With India’s smartphone base crossing a billion users, the government insists that digital safety tools like Sanchar Saathi are essential to protect citizens from cybercrime, online scams, and telecom fraud.
The incident has reignited India’s ongoing debate over digital rights versus state surveillance. While the government intentions may centre on consumer protection. Experts argue that policymakers must deploy such technology with transparency, consent, and strong data-protection laws. For now, Sanchar Saathi will continue to function as an optional safety tool. Available through the portal sancharsaathi.gov.in and on mobile app stores but the larger conversation about digital freedom in India is far from over.
